Separate Interceptors for Aircraft and Ballistic Missile Targets

The South Korean military has successfully test-launched the country’s Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, currently under development to help counter North Korea’s increasingly advanced missile systems.

The Yonhap News Agency cited sources as saying that the test, which was overseen by the state-run Agency for Defense Development (ADD), took place on 23 February from a test site in Taean county, 150km southwest of Seoul. The media outlet noted the test was reportedly designed to confirm that the L-SAM interceptor – development of which is slated for completion by 2024 – can fly on an intended trajectory and fall accurately on a pre-determined spot.

The military is planning to deploy the L-SAM from 2026 as part of the country’s multi-layered missile defence programme, but there is speculation that Seoul might move that date forward, given Pyongyang’s rapid advances in missile technology. The L-SAM is being designed to fire two new types of interceptors: an anti-aircraft missile and an anti-ballistic missile missile.

Meanwhile, broadcaster KBS World reported that ADD also succeeded in testing an upgraded version of the ship-launched Haegung guided missile on the same day. This new variant is slated for deployment later this year.

The tests come as South Korea’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) aims to re-organise the country’s air defence units, as well as to expand their role and capabilities to better respond to the growing threat posed by North Korea’s new missile systems.

Among other things, the MND plans to revamp the Republic of Korea Air Force’s (RoKAF’s) Air Defense Missile Command, and shore up its anti-missile capabilities. Under the planned re-organisation, scheduled to begin in April, the ministry is seeking not only to change the name of the command, but also to provide it with additional ballistic missile early-warning radars, as well as long- and mid-range SAM systems.

Gabriel Dominguez in Singapore for MON