Hyundai Rotem's Unmanned Vehicle Operates in Turkey... Military Unmannedization Is

The Republic of Korea Army's next-generation main battle tank, the 'K-2' (also known as Heukpyo)

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter] As the unmanned electric trains in Istanbul, Turkey, ordered by Hyundai Rotem begin operations, momentum is expected to build in the military unmanned vehicle sector as well.

According to Hyundai Rotem on the 29th, the Istanbul unmanned electric trains consist of a total of 120 cars (30 trainsets), which Hyundai Rotem won a contract for 156 billion KRW in 2017. The Istanbul trains are the second unmanned electric trains operating in Turkey, with 20 trainsets deployed on the route connecting Mahmutbey and Mezitk?y, and 10 trainsets on the route connecting Dudullu and Bostancı. The speed is 80 km/h.

Following civilian applications, Hyundai Rotem has also ventured into remote unmanned military tanks and armored vehicles. Recently, Hyundai Rotem secured a project from the Defense Industry Technology Support Center under the Agency for Defense Development for the remote unmanned operation of mobile combat systems. The project is valued at 7.4 billion KRW and involves technology that enables remote control of K-series tanks, armored vehicles, and self-propelled artillery deployed in the South Korean military. The project includes ▲external remote control devices ▲automatic return function in case of communication loss ▲360-degree situational awareness technology.

Converting K-series armored vehicles and tanks for unmanned use can replace the roles of soldiers reduced by defense reforms. Additionally, missions can be performed manned during peacetime and switched to unmanned depending on battlefield conditions, significantly enhancing the survivability of friendly forces. Furthermore, when multipurpose unmanned vehicles for infantry are operated, they can simultaneously perform remote reconnaissance and scouting missions, as well as transport heavy and bulky combat supplies, improving the survivability and combat capability of infantry units.

Hyundai Rotem has already showcased the multipurpose unmanned vehicle 'HR-Sherpa' at the '72nd Armed Forces Day Commemoration Ceremony.' The HR-Sherpa features excellent mobility with a 360-degree on-the-spot rotation function and uses airless tires advantageous for rough terrain driving, eliminating the risk of punctures. It is also equipped with a Remote Control Weapon System (RCWS) manufactured by Hyundai Wia, enabling long-range detection and reconnaissance, and can perform various missions such as logistics and patient transport, fire support, and hazardous material detection depending on the purpose.