By Diplomacy Journal Kayla Lee 

Hanwha Aerospace, a subsidiary of Hanwha Group, has signed a 705 billion won contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) for the mass production of the Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, a central component of South Korea’s layered air and missile defense architecture.

Under the pact, Hanwha Aerospace will manufacture and deliver L-SAM launchers and anti-ballistic missiles to the Republic of Korea Armed Forces through 2030.

By adding a higher-altitude interception layer, the system enables earlier engagement of incoming ballistic missiles before current assets such as the M-SAM and Patriot are deployed.

The L-SAM incorporates advanced technologies, including a divert and attitude control system (DACS) and a dual-pulse propulsion system. It is the first long-range missile defense system developed in Korea to feature these capabilities, enabling accurate interception at very high altitudes where aerodynamic control becomes ineffective. This significantly enhances the reliability and resilience of Korea’s air and missile defense.

The deal follows a 357.3 billion won production contract awarded last month to Hanwha Systems for the L-SAM Multi-Function Radar (MFR)—the core sensor that detects and tracks hostile missiles and aircraft across long distances.

Meanwhile, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), along with Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems, is working on the L-SAM-II project. The upgraded system is expected to expand coverage by three to four times compared with existing assets and further strengthen South Korea’s strategic deterrence.