South Korea is moving to strengthen its armored and naval capabilities through major investments in the K2 tank and Haeseong-II missile programs. The country plans to spend 3.43 trillion won ($2.43 billion) between 2028 and 2046 upgrading its K2 main battle tanks with active protection systems, counter-drone and IED jammers, and remote weapon stations. The modernization reflects growing concerns over evolving battlefield threats, particularly North Korea’s expanding use of suicide drones capable of attacking armored vehicles from above. Seoul is also preparing to enhance its maritime strike capability through the Haeseong-II ship-to-ship missile program. Approved with an investment of 1.63 trillion won ($1.15 billion) through 2039, the new missile is expected to achieve a range in the mid-300-kilometer class, significantly exceeding the approximately 150–180-kilometer range of the existing Haeseong. Together, the programs demonstrate South Korea’s focus on improving survivability, long-range firepower, and readiness against emerging regional security challenges.
