South Korea Develops Missile Defense System Amid North Korea Tensions
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World
January 20, 2025 08:00
south korea - South Korea announces the development of a missile defense system similar to Israel's Iron Dome, in response to North Korea deploying 250 missile launchers.
South Korea Develops New Missile Defense System
South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) revealed plans to develop a domestic missile defense system similar to Israel's Iron Dome, amid rising tensions with North Korea.
The new system, named Low Altitude Missile Defense (LAMD), is set to receive a budget of 479.8 billion won (approximately $329 million) by 2028. The project will be supported by the state-owned Agency for Defense Development (ADD), as well as defense companies like LIG Nex1, Hanwha Aerospace, and Hanwha Systems.
LAMD is expected to help defend key military installations against North Korean threats once operational.
North Korea Deploys 250 Missile Launchers Near the Border
Last August, North Korea announced the deployment of 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers to military units near the border. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un described the move as a significant step in enhancing the country's prestige, reinforcing its sovereignty, and fulfilling its defense duty for peace.
The deployment raised security concerns for the Seoul metropolitan area.