Securing a Production Hub for Next-Generation Radar and Missile Defense Systems
Strengthening the Global Supply Chain of K-Defense with Korea’s Largest Defense Radar Manufacturing Base
Completion of 89,000-Square-Meter New Plant Expected to Boost Local Industry and Employment
Hanwha Systems (CEO Son Jaeil) held a completion ceremony for its Gumi Plant (Gumi National Industrial Complex 1) on November 25. The event was attended by approximately 250 people, including Gumi Mayor Kim Jangho, Hanwha Systems CEO Son Jaeil, Gyeongsangbuk-do Vice Governor for Economic Affairs Yang Geumhee, national and local assembly members, officials from the Agency for Defense Development, senior officials from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as partner companies and employees, commemorating the completion of the Gumi Plant, which will be responsible for the future of K-Defense.
With the launch of this new facility, Hanwha Systems has transitioned to an advanced defense production system. This move is expected to create a domino effect of investment within the region, going beyond a simple expansion of facilities.
Hanwha Systems Gumi Plant (Gumi National Industrial Complex 1) Completion Ceremony Group Photo / Photo by Gumi City Hall
Following the investment agreement signed in 2022, the Gumi Plant was built on a site of approximately 89,000 square meters (about 27,000 pyeong). It will focus on producing next-generation core defense equipment such as maritime unmanned systems, naval combat systems, Tactical Information Communication Network (TICN), and integrated battlefield systems. Going forward, it is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the future defense industry as the largest domestic production hub for defense electronics systems.
The Gumi Plant has strengthened its global market responsiveness by establishing an integrated system that brings together research and development (R&D), production, testing, and export functions in one location. In particular, with global demand for K-Defense expanding rapidly, the new plant provides a foundation for the stable production and supply of large-scale orders, which is expected to further accelerate export growth.
Hanwha Systems is Korea’s leading defense electronics company, having accumulated over 40 years of technological expertise across land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains, and is at the forefront of the smart defense era. In particular, as the competitiveness of weapon systems shifts from weapon performance and single platforms to a focus on sensors, networks, and command systems (C4ISR), Hanwha Systems’ role is expected to expand even further.
Additionally, as a key defense anchor company in Gumi, Hanwha Systems is set to revitalize the local industrial ecosystem through large-scale investments and the creation of new jobs, serving as a major driver for the recovery of the regional economy.
Gumi Mayor Kim Jangho stated, "The completion of this new plant is an important milestone that enables Gumi to accelerate the development of Korea’s defense industry amid an unstable international situation." He added, "I hope it will grow into a key hub leading the global defense industry in connection with the Defense Innovation Cluster." He further emphasized, "We will continue our efforts to create a business-friendly environment and attract more companies to revitalize the regional economy."
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