South Korea Confirmed as Global Strategic Supplier at Poland’s MSPO Defense Expo
The South Korean industry’s record financial results reflect a rise in military power, driven by exports of combat systems that are now indispensable in several international theaters, including Europe – especially thanks to the Polish Army’s modernization projects.
In mid-August, the Yonhap news agency revealed that South Korea’s major defense players — Hanwha Aerospace, LIG Nex1, KAI, Hyundai Rotem, and Hanwha Systems — had broken new ground in the first half of 2025. With cumulative operating profits of 2.3 trillion won ($1.65 billion, approximately €1.51 billion), an increase of 161%, they have established themselves as key suppliers of military equipment in a context marked by the rise of conventional and hybrid threats.
Chunmoo K239 MLRS
Hanwha Aerospace’s major success is linked to the accelerated export of its Chunmoo K239 system, a multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) designed to offer saturation power equivalent to that of the American HIMARS. In the second quarter, foreign sales jumped 43%, confirming the integration of the Chunmoo into several European fire doctrines. The financial performance – 1.43 trillion won in profits ($1.03 billion, approximately €1.03 billion) in the first half of 2025, a fourfold increase in one year – reflect the adoption of this precision artillery by armies seeking a rapid response to high-intensity threats. Seoul is thus positioning its product as a credible alternative to NATO standards.
FA-50 advanced trainer and multi-role fighter
In the aerospace sector, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is capitalizing on the rise of its FA-50 light fighter jet. Based on the T-50 Golden Eagle, the aircraft has been exported to Poland and Malaysia, generating 227.3 billion won in international sales ($163 million, approximately €163 million) in the second quarter. Capable of serving both as an advanced trainer and as a multi-role fighter, the FA-50 is part of a cost-controlled air force strategy. For Warsaw, it fills an operational gap while awaiting deliveries of heavier aircraft, while Kuala Lumpur is integrating it to modernize an aging fleet.
K2 Black Panther MBT
The K2 Black Panther, produced by Hyundai Rotem, is one of the most sophisticated Main Battle Tanks currently on the market. In the first half of the year, the company posted operating profits of 460.4 billion won ($331 million, approximately €331 million), up 192%, thanks to contracts with Poland and other European countries. Equipped with a 120 mm gun, a digital fire control system, and advanced composite armor, the K2 is a credible solution for armies facing the accelerated wear and tear of their armored fleets. The associated logistics, maintenance, spare parts, and training give South Korea lasting influence within the armed forces of its customers.
Although its profits fell by 29.5% in the first half of the year, Hanwha Systems maintains its strategic role thanks to exports of multifunction radars for the Cheongung-II (KM-SAM Block II) system. Intended for the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, these radars are the core of a medium-range surface-to-air defense system capable of countering ballistic and cruise missile threats.
Order book valued at €80.5 billion
According to Yonhap, the entire sector now has an order book valued at 111.9 trillion won ($81 billion, approximately €80.5 billion). This visibility not only ensures continued financial growth but also strengthens Seoul’s strategic influence. Exports to Europe and the Middle East are expanding the operational ecosystem around South Korean standards. “With continued overseas orders for our flagship products, we have a positive outlook for the second half of the year,” said an industry official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Sixteen South Korean exhibitors participated in the MSPO trade fair in Kielce, Poland, including Hanwha, Hyundai Rotem, and KAI. “Hanwha and Poland have built deep trust through the K9 and Chunmoo projects. We will do our best to contribute to Poland's self-defense capabilities and support the growth of its defense industry ecosystem,” The Korea Times quoted Hanwha Aerospace Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Son Jae-il.
