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The South Korean defence procurement agency has given Hanwha the greenlight to begin development on their unmanned ground combat vehicle, following a series of trials earlier in the year.
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The South Korean Agency for Defense Development (ADD) confirmed this week that the Hanwha 6x6 Unmanned Surveillance Vehicle successfully finalised its exploratory development phase, marking the first time in which a mid to large unmanned ground vehicle has progressed through to development.
Hanwha Defense is expected to oversee the vehicle’s development, as well as the incorporation of surveillance and communications capabilities.
The project was launched in 2018, with the latest rounds of trials having finished in February. In March, the vehicle received a certification for Technology Readiness Level 6, allowing it to progress into development.
“This unmanned surveillance vehicle can be used to remotely lead mechanised units across a variety of terrains, including tactical roads, off-road, and unpaved roads,” a spokesperson from Hanwha Defense outlined.
“The vehicle is designed to conduct many different operations such as reconnaissance, target guidance, engagement with the enemy.”
The vehicle is expected to be armed with a remote-controlled machine gun, with optional additional configurations including detection capabilities or drone equipment.
The South Korean ADD is funded by the government’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
[Related: Hanwha, Oshkosh sign partnership for US Army Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle]
Liam Garman
Editor – Defence and Security, Momentum Media
