South Korea: The Overlooked Arms Supplier
The arms supplier most people tend to overlook is really starting to get themselves out there.
Korean Defense Manufacturers’ Global Expansion
Over the last decade or so, South Korea has slowly become a major arms exporter and supplier. In recent years, numerous Korean defense manufacturers such as Korea Aerospace Industries, Hyundai Rotem, and Kia (yes, THAT Kia) have begun to offer their services to clients other than the South Korean military, and they have gained some success in the international market.
Norway, Poland, and Egypt have all shown strong interest in the K-2 “Black Panther” MBT by Hyundai Rotem, with the Polish wanting to produce the tank in-country under license. The K9 “Thunder” self-propelled howitzer has also been a bit of a success, with several countries not only lining up to acquire it but also signing deals to build it in-country. These countries include Australia, Turkey, and India.
Expanding to Different Markets
The Kia KLTV (yes, the same Kia) has been exported to Mali and the Philippines, while the KAI T-50 “Golden Eagle” is proving to be a contender as both an advanced trainer and a light fighter aircraft.
Of course, these are only a few examples of what South Korea has exported over the years. But don’t be too surprised if, in a few years, some Korean names are dropped when countries send out tenders for new military equipment.
