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Export version of the Cheongung-II multifunction radar developed by Hanwha Systems. (Photo: Hanwha Systems) |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] South Korea is expected to deliver more than 30 interceptor missiles for the Cheongung-II medium-range surface-to-air missile system to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in two batches on June 8 and 9, according to reports.
According to an exclusive report by Dong-A Ilbo on March 6, a senior government official said the interceptor missiles—prepared in advance—will be transported using C-17 Globemaster III operated by the UAE.
The additional delivery follows an urgent request from the UAE, which has seen its demand for air defense systems surge after a large-scale Iranian attack in the region.
However, the South Korean government reportedly informed the UAE that accelerating the delivery of entire Cheongung-II batteries would be difficult due to existing contractual commitments. Instead, the UAE requested that interceptor missiles be supplied first.
The UAE signed a contract in 2022 to acquire 10 Cheongung-II batteries from South Korean defense companies including LIG Nex1, Hanwha Systems, and Hanwha Aerospace. So far, two batteries have been deployed.
According to Yoo Yong-won, a member of the National Assembly’s Defense Committee, the Cheongung-II systems deployed in the UAE recently achieved an interception success rate of about 96% during actual combat operations responding to Iranian attacks.
Foreign media have reported that Iran launched suicide drones and ballistic missiles across the Middle East following airstrikes by the United States and Israel.
In response, the UAE activated its multi-layered air defense network, in which the Cheongung-II system reportedly operated alongside systems such as Patriot missile system, THAAD, Arrow missile system, and Barak‑8.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
