TSAMTO, September 30. The Defense Procurement Programs Agency of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Korea (DAPA) announced its intention to develop, using national technologies, an improved amphibious assault vehicle (amphibious assault vehicle) for equipping marine units.
According to Yonhap news agency with reference to DAPA data, the country's Defense Projects Review Committee, during a meeting chaired by the Minister of National Defense, approved the implementation of a development project with a budget of 2.1 trillion. won ($1.77 billion). The work should be completed by 2036.
It is expected that the new armored vehicle will replace obsolete armored vehicles in service, increase the mobility and survivability of marine units. According to DAPA, in the near future, the development of the engine and other main components of the machine will begin in the country.
The meeting also approved a plan to develop a new 130-mm anti-ship missile. According to DAPA, the project is worth 380 billion. The project will be implemented under the leadership of the Defense Development Agency (ADD). It should be completed by 2023. It is expected that this program will expand the ability to respond to threats of coastal shelling and amphibious landings.
As reported by TSAMTO, currently the South Korean Hanwha Techwin, under license from BAE Systems, produces AAV-7A1 floating armored vehicles. South Korean-made machines are designated KAAV-7A1. The Armed Forces of the Republic of Korea has about 160 units of AAV7-A1.