WASHINGTON: South Korean defense firms are making a concerted effort to gain a stronger presence in the U.S. defense market by showcasing a range of advanced military technologies, including unmanned vehicles and automatic artillery systems, at the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition. The event, which began on Monday at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, is a significant gathering in the defense sector, drawing participation from over 770 organizations worldwide.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the expo has seen the installation of the “Korea Pavilion” by around a dozen South Korean companies, aiming to establish a stronger foothold in the U.S. market. This strategic move comes as Washington emphasizes the importance of regional alliances for enhancing logistical support structures under its “regional sustainment framework.” Among the prominent exhibitors are Hanwha Aerospace Co., Poongsan Corp., Korea Defense Industry Corp., Taekyung Electronics Co., and SooSung
Defense Industries Ltd.
Hanwha Aerospace has introduced the K9A2, an advanced version of its K9 self-propelled howitzer, which features an automated turret for ammunition handling. The company also showcased the Ground Uncrewed Transport (GRUNT), a hybrid electric vehicle designed to aid infantry operations. These innovations highlight the technological advancements and capabilities of South Korean military hardware in a competitive international market.
Jeff Sung, director of communications at Hanwha Aerospace, emphasized the importance of strengthening the South Korea-U.S. alliance through defense industrial cooperation. “In the midst of the rapidly changing security environment, the South Korea-U.S. alliance should move forward on a path to strengthening bilateral defense industrial cooperation, and through this, we believe the alliance can be further solidified,” Sung stated. He further noted that the ongoing combined exercises between the two nations lay a robust foundation for enhanced technological c
ooperation and development, potentially boosting regional security.
The AUSA 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition, which is expected to attract around 35,000 attendees, continues to serve as a pivotal platform for international defense collaborations and technological displays, reinforcing the importance of global partnerships in maintaining security and stability.
Source: Yonhap News Agency