LIG Nex1

Reinforcement of competitiveness in diversifying global market through building and long-term maintenance of strategic partnership LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) held a contract signing ceremony with Shield AI, a global leader in unmanned systems and autonomous flight technology, at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) 2026 organized in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on January 21, 2021. Leading executives from the two companies including CEO Shin of LIG Nex1 LIG and Executive Vice President Bob Harward of Shield AI attended the event commemorating the signing of a business contract on flight and launch testing of Shield AIs V-BAT vertical take-off and landing aircraft mounted with LIG Multi-purpose Drone Launched Missile (L-MDM). L-MDM, a drone-borne air-to-ground guided missile, is a small and lightweight weapons system that LIG Nex1 is developing independently. It can pinpoint strike fixed or moving targets based on laser guidance, thereby securing safe standoff distance of combatants and improving their survivability. Notably, its design allows easy integration and interface with both rotary-wing and fixed wing drone platforms for surveillance and reconnaissance and thus can be applied flexibly to various platforms. The two companies plan to continue to build strategic partnerships in UAV and mounted weapons and strengthen competitiveness in the diversifying global market through long-term relationships. In May of last year, LIG Nex1 and Shield AI signed a Memorandum of Understanding on developing manned-unmanned teaming solutions for the future battlefield at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) 2025.

Expansion in the Middle East market through mannedunmanned teaming (MUM‑T) and integrated air defense systems optimized for local land, sea, and air environments Sea Sword-X capable of a wide-range of missions and L-SAM, a long-range land-to-air missile, presented along with other products LIG Nex1 embarked on market expansion in unmanned/autonomous systems, rising as game changers on todays battlefield, with a focus on the manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T). The company is taking part in the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) 2026, being held in Abu Dhabi, UAE, for three days from January 20. About 200 companies from 35 countries are participating in this years UMEX an exhibition centered on future warfare featuring robots, unmanned systems, drones, and AI solutions. At UMEX 2026, LIG Nex1 introduces Sea Sword-X, a concept model for modular unmanned surface vessel capable of diverse missions such as surveillance and reconnaissance, combat, and anti-drone defense, as well as Sea Sword-X and other robots and unmanned systems optimized for local environments including small reconnaissance and strike drones. At the same time, the company is showcasing Vision 60, a quadruped robot drawing keen attention as a manned-unmanned teaming system applicable to defense and civilian sectors, through strategic collaboration with Ghost Robotics. It also displays advanced technological products, which can contribute to reinforcing the air defense capabilities of local military, such as L-SAM, a long-range surface-to-air missile capable of long-range high-altitude interception; M-SAM II, a medium-range medium-altitude interception system; and an integrated counter-drone system. LIG Nex1 has been participating in defense industry exhibitions in countries including UAE and Saudi Arabia since 2009 with its eyes on the Middle East as a strategic market. In particular, the company plans to use this opportunity to showcase its differentiated RD expertise in national defense and engage in promotional activities for the expansion of export and technological cooperation in the rapidly growing future warfare market targeting local military officials. LIG Nex1 CEO Shin Ick-hyun commented, Todays battlefield is undergoing rapid transformation with mannedunmanned teaming, artificial intelligence, and drones. We hope that this exhibition will help us build a leading position in the global market with a focus on the field of future warfare, which is experiencing significant growth in demand.

K-Air Defense Network, an integrated multi-layer defense solution with proven technological performance, was showcased Efforts for local confidence building and contract marketing through enhanced awareness of K-defense in the Middle East LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) is taking part in DIMDEX 2026, a defense industry exhibition held in Qatar, with the intent to expand its presence in the Middle East market. The Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition Conference (DIMDEX) is the largest maritime defense industry exhibition organized the Middle East and held in the capital city of Qatar. DIMDEX 2026, the tenth event of the biennial exhibition, is taking place from January 19 to 22 with more than 200 government organizations including defense ministries and defense companies participating. In the exhibition, LIG Nex1 shows the integrated multi-layer defense solution K-Air Defense Network from high altitude to low altitude, comprising M-SAM II, a medium-range, medium-altitude interception system; L-SAM, a long-range surface-to-air missile capable of long-range high-altitude interception; and KP-SAM, a portable surface-to-air missile. It also seeks collaboration opportunities to help strengthen the air defense capabilities of local militaries. In addition, the company is showcasing Raybolt, an anti-tank guided weapon; Poniard, a 2.75-inch guided rocket that passed the U.S. Foreign Comparative Testing; and Weapon Locating Radar-II, a key component in counter-fire operations, and will propose an integrated solution to strengthen local military defense. This marks LIG Nex1s first participation in DIMDEX, and the company hopes to strengthen localized contract marketing in the region after expanding its local footprint last August to boost export competitiveness and global business capabilities in the Middle East. Since the company successfully signed export contracts on medium-range surface-to-air missiles with major Middle Eastern nations, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iraq, gaining recognition for its technological expertise, its participation in the exhibition is expected to serve as an opportunity to further solidify the companys position in the region.

New Years kick-off ceremony held at Seoul National Cemetery for over 20 years to honor the sacrifices of national heroes and patriots LIG Nex1 held the patriotic New Years kick-off ceremony to mark the start of the Year of Byeong-O at Seoul National Cemetery on January 6. About 90 executives and employees of LIG Group and its affiliates LIG Nex1, LIG System, LIG HUSECO, and Innowireless attended the event led by LIG Group Chairman Koo Bon-sang to pay tribute to the sacrifices of those who gave their lives to protect the nation. Chairman Koo wrote, We will build a stronger and safer Republic of Korea, keeping the noble sacrifices of the fallen patriots deep in our hearts, in the visitors book. The patriotic New Years kick-off ceremony, established as one of LIG Nex1s leading events to honor fallen national heroes, has been held since 2004. In 2010, it became the first Korean defense company to set up a sisterhood relationship with Seoul National Cemetery more concretely, with its 30th grave district and has maintained memorial activities, including cleaning of the district. The company also maintains such programs as 1 company 1 military camp support, West Sea Defense Day commemoration events, and support for a military scholarship foundation to fulfill its corporate social responsibility as a defense company.

CEO Shin Ick-hyun proposes RD innovation and global export strategies at Pangyo House at Jan. 5 ceremony Renaming as LIG Defense Aerospace sought to commemorate the 50th anniversary and to be confirmed at the shareholders meeting Director General Yoo Kyung-deok was named the Nex1 Person of the Year for his crucial role in winning the contract for the Cheollian-5 Satellite LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) held the 2026 New Years kick-off ceremony at its Pangyo House on January 5 and shared ideas about changes in domestic and global management environments and management policies for this year. CEO Shin said, in his New Years message, that while 2026 is the 50th anniversary of the companys establishment, it will be the first year of its fresh start for another 50 years. He also announced the three key management policies for sustainable growth amid rapidly changing local and foreign management environments. He said, Last year, we achieved significant results in guided missiles, aircraft weapons, unmanned systems, and the space domain backed by our accumulated technologies and solid teamwork. This year, we will work together to take the next leap forward to emerge as a true leader in the defense industry by creating a solid global base, accelerating the pace of RD, and establishing a culture of communication. During the ceremony, the company also decided to rename itself LIG Defense Aerospace (LIG DA), carrying on its 50-year legacy of leadership in the Republic of Koreas defense industry since its founding in 1976 and rising to future challenges. LIG DA, the companys new name, further highlights its identity as a defense company and represents its aspiration to expand its business areas toward the world, space, and future. The company plans to get final confirmation of its renaming at the upcoming regular general shareholders meeting. Awarding of the Nex1 Person of the Year was also made during the New Years kick-off ceremony. The award was given to Director General Yoo Kyung-deok(Geostationary Satellite Development Division), who played a key role in technology development and contract winning of Cheollian-5 Satellite last year. He received the honor for his contribution to boosting the companys aerospace capabilities and securing a future growth engine.

∙ Leading RD for an aircraft weapon system development project carried out by the Agency for Defense Development, mobilizing company-wide capabilities. ∙ Advancing toward completion of Korean-Style Fighter: RD commenced on a comprehensive guided missile system and an imaging infrared seeker ∙ Project completion expected to enable air-to-surface/air-to-air engagement of locally made fighters and improve competitiveness in defense exports LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) is starting full-scale development of an aircraft weapon system that will lead to the completion of Korean-style fighters along with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD). The company announced that it has signed a contract for the development of the Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile II (hereinafter SRAAM II) project for system integration and missile prototype development on December 24. The SRAAM II project, supervised by ADD, deals with the development of a short-range air-to-air missile to be installed on the KF-21 fighter. The missile is aimed at destroying enemy aircraft during KF-21s close-range air-to-air engagement and ensuring the survivability of friendly fighter jets. The value of the entire program, including the announced project, is about KRW 207 billion. Under the project, system integration and missile integration will be made along with the development of key missile components such as imaging infrared seeker, guidance and control system, inertial navigation system, actuator, and target detection system until 2032. When the project is completed, KF-21 will be mounted with locally manufactured short-range air-to-air missiles in addition to Korean-made long-range air-to-surface missiles. Localization of core technologies is expected to contribute to technological independence and shared growth of the domestic defense industry. LIG Nex1 has played a crucial role in developing an air defense system to be mounted on KF-21 by being selected as the system integrator for SRAAM II, as well as KGGB, a Korean-style GPS-guided munition, and the long-distance air-to-surface missile known as Korean-style TAURUS. This is likely to help boost the development of Korean air defense technologies and competitiveness in defense exports. The company is also working on proactive measures to fulfill its role as befitting the status of a trusted leader in guided weapons. It is getting ready for the self-funded investment in consideration of a long-range air-to-air missile development project that will mark a major milestone for air defense system development in the future. At the same time, it is making active efforts in diversification and technological development of aircraft weapon systems by, for example, displaying L-MCM, an in-house developed Korean-style multi-purpose cruise missile, and L-MSM, a modular missile capable of anti-ship and land-attack missions and non-strike missions such as communication and jamming at ADEX 2025. CEO Shin commented, We plan to mobilize all company-wide capabilities for the successful development of SRAAM II based on close collaboration with the Agency for Defense Development, the implementing organization of the project, and other relevant organizations and companies. We will do our utmost to promote the status of K-defense through a package strategy for Korean-made fighters and domestic aircraft weapon systems.

‧ Agreement signed on all three core technologies (integrated control, autonomous missions, weapon operation and launch control) of the combat unmanned surface vehicle ‧ Proactive adoption of a common architecture for maritime unmanned systems: implementation of K-MOSA (standardization and modularization of defense unmanned systems) LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) is accelerating the realization of the Navy Sea GHOST, a manned-unmanned integrated system, by developing core technologies for combat unmanned surface vehicle (USV). LIG Nex1 signed a package-type project agreement on technology development for the integrated control and autonomous mission system of combat USV with the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) on December 19. The project aimed at securing core technologies required for the system development of Batch-II of the combat USV is planned by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and KRIT to minimize the risks in system development and improve stability and efficiency of the project. LIG Nex1 will coordinate the overall development as the lead RD organization. Under the agreement on the project in which a KRW 49 billion government fund is invested, development of an integrated control system, a weapon operation and launch control system, and an autonomous mission system for combat USV will be made for 60 months until December 2030. These technologies are essential for developing the combat USV system central to the Navy Sea GHOST, a manned-unmanned integrated combat system. Notably, the project includes technologies for a 20mm remote-controlled weapon system (RCWS) and launch and operation of Poniard guided rocket and suicide drone, raising the anticipation for marked improvement in long-range precision strike. A key component of the manned-unmanned integrated combat system is how effectively combatants are replaced when military force is downsized in response to the population cliff. Through the development of these core technologies, LIG Nex1 intends to implement core ship elements, including commanding officer, operations officer, and weapons officer, based on the companys and its partner companies cutting-edge technological expertise. Integrated control system as commanding officer of a combat unmanned surface vehicle The combat unmanned surface vehicle (USV) is a future weapons system that carries out various missions simultaneously without onboard crew members. The technology for the integrated control system is a key technology that determines mission efficiency and survivability through organic integration and real-time control of the system, sensors, and weapons. Based on the companys advanced control technology and AI-based intelligent system development capabilities, LIG Nex1 plans to develop an integrated control system that will perform the role of a commanding officer of a combat USV flawlessly through real-time data processing, fast and accurate situation assessment, and appropriate operational command. Weapon operation and launch system as an astute combat systems officer dominating a maritime combat zone LIG Nex1 intends to support powerful weapon operation dominating the maritime combat zone through the development of core technologies for weapon operation and launch control of combat USV. In particular, it plans to optimize weapon launch and operation to enable effective control of 20mm RCWS, swarming suicide drones, and Poniard guided rockets, thereby suppressing enemy vessels and maritime threats from multiple directions as well as neutralizing the enemys high-value targets accurately. Poniard, a 2.75-inch guided rocket developed to strike North Korean hovercraft, was deployed by the Marine Corps in 2016. It passed the Foreign Comparative Testing, a kind of certification for potential weapon systems import in the US, last year, and is drawing attention as a key K-defense export item. Autonomous mission system as an operations officer that analyzes battlefield situations and supports decisions On a vessel, the operations officer takes charge of ship operations and tactical applications, while on a USV, the autonomous mission system takes over the sophisticated roles of data collection from a rapidly changing maritime environment, detection of threats, and analysis of priorities. Towards this goal, LIG Nex1 plans to cooperate with Quantum Aero, a company specializing in AI-based autonomous combat capability in a combat environment, optimize maritime situational awareness by developing an advanced autonomous mission system, and substantially improve the autonomy and mission effectiveness of a USV. Implementation of K-MOSA by applying a common architecture for maritime unmanned systems to be developed under government leadership (Agency for Defense Development) LIG Nex1 will proactively adopt the common architecture for the maritime unmanned system being developed under government leadership (Agency for Defense Development) in the development process of the planned integrated control system. It intends to build the basis of interoperability for multiple, multi-type USVs that the Navy will use in the future by securing a standard interface between different systems, modularization of mission equipment, plug-and-play-based equipment integration, and application of open-access software. A consortium of local leaders in maritime technologies to be formed to drive future innovation as one team In the proposal stage of this project, LIG Nex1 proactively suggested the construction of a full-scale combat USV. This was for thorough technical verification after the development of core technologies. In this relationship, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries and HJ Shipbuilding Construction will take charge of design and production of the USV platform based on their outstanding expertise in navy vessels, whereas LIG Nex1 will lead development of technologies for the integrated control system that organically integrates the platform and key components, weapon control system, and autonomous mission system to optimize the combat capability of the USV. K-USVs full-fledged entry in the global market An official from LIG Nex1 said, We accumulated relevant experience and technologies through in-house development of the Sea Sword USV series in a civil-military project from 2015. We are developing a reconnaissance USV with the Navy until 2027, continuing to build advanced technological capabilities and cultivate core talent in the field. We will do our best to modularize mission equipment with a focus on weapons and detection systems to help accomplish the Navys vision. He added, The development of core technologies for combat USV will provide an important opportunity for future military capability of the Korean Navy and our competitive edge in the global USV market. By developing derivative models suitable for various foreign countries, we will continue to boost K-USVs global competitiveness.

Physical AI and on-device AI technologies set to drive innovation in intelligent drone and robot technologies Leading promotion of the competitiveness of domestic AI semiconductors and revitalization of the AI semiconductor business in national defense and civilian sectors LIG Nex1 signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BOS Semiconductors, a Korean fabless semiconductor company, to expedite the development and commercialization of physical AI solutions for drones and robots. BOS Semiconductors is a domestic company specializing in the design of semiconductors for automobiles, robots, and physical AI. The MOU was signed for full-scale cooperation for physical AI and on-device AI to drive innovation in drone and robot technologies. Based on the MOU, the two companies will enhance their cooperation on developing physical AI semiconductors, drones, and robots, applying the semiconductors and high-performance system-on-chip (SoC) to be used on next-generation drones and robots. Physical AI is a technology that enables devices to perceive, make decisions, and move in their own physical space through AI models installed in them. It can also reduce dependency on cloud computing through perception, inference, and control on the devices in real time, thereby minimizing latency and substantially increasing security and power efficiency. Due to such characteristics, physical AI is emerging as a basic technology that satisfies major requirements of robots and drones operating autonomously in an unmanned environment and is hailed as a key next-generation technology paradigm. Based on their collaboration, LIG Nex1 and BOS Semiconductors plan to improve technological competitiveness in AI semiconductors optimized for drone and robot platforms and high-performance SoC, leading the development of advanced intelligent unmanned systems in various areas, including defense, industry, and logistics in the future. LIG Nex1 is working on the development of next-generation robot and drone systems applying the on-device AI semiconductor, a key component of unmanned mobility devices such as drones, robots, and humanoids that will incorporate physical AI. It will also consider the applicability to new high-performance SoC-based platforms in addition to AI semiconductors, further accelerating technological innovation in unmanned systems. Kim Jin-hoon, head of LIG Nex1s D2C Research Center, said, Based on the collaboration, we can drastically reduce dependency on foreign AI semiconductors through domestic manufacturing of on-device AI semiconductors and high-performance SoC, which are key components of unmanned mobility devices. We expect that it will provide strategic momentum to build competitiveness of local AI semiconductor manufacturers and facilitate the AI semiconductor industry in defense and civil domains.

Safety devices offered to 30 partner companies: will continue to expand support program LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) carried out an industrial safety support program providing automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to 30 partner companies in an effort to practice shared growth. The support was made as part of the shared growth program under the goals of building a swift response system to emergency situations in industrial sites and safeguarding the lives and safety of employees at relevant companies. This is expected to facilitate prompt first aid in a working environment, thus contributing to the prevention of industrial accidents and advancement of safety infrastructure. AEDs offered to partner companies are publicly accessible devices with detailed instructions offered through video and voice on the built-in display, so that those unfamiliar with such devices and even hearing-impaired individuals can use them easily and quickly on the spot. LIG Nex1 has conducted varied activities with shared growth in mind, including the support for safety inspection, productivity improvement program, and education for shared growth in its partner companies. The recent support for safety devices is meaningful in that the company has expanded the scope of shared growth to the health and safety of the employees of its partners. An official from the company commented, Safety of the employees of our partner companies is a basic foundation of the common growth of everyone involved. We will continue to scale up substantive support programs that will minimize risks and enhance safety in industrial sites.

Position as a model company in ESG management reinforced High ratings maintained in all categories of domestic and overseas ESG evaluations, proving its strength in sustainable management Excellent reviews in quality management, employee communication, and participation programs LIG Nex1 received an A or higher rating in all categories of Korean and overseas ESG evaluations this year, solidifying its position as an exemplary company in ESG management. Last September, the company received a AA grade in the 2025 ESG evaluation by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), keeping the rating for three consecutive years. The AA rating that LIG Nex1 earned is given to the top 17 percent of evaluated companies, and this is equal to the highest level in the domestic defense industry. The company also won an A rating in the evaluation by the Korea Institute of Corporate Governance and Sustainability (KCGS), maintaining the rating for four consecutive years from 2022 and demonstrating the reliability of its ESG management system and successful outcomes of its sustainable management. LIG Nex1 received excellent reviews in categories including quality management system, as well as employee communication and participation programs. In addition to applying strict quality management throughout the entire production process of defense products, the company has carried out continuous support and training programs for partner companies to help establish well-structured quality management systems. The company also implements diversified programs for its employees, including the flexible start time system aimed at promoting all employees autonomy and balanced lifestyles, the L-Fresh Holiday program for self-development and recharging, and Family Day events to which employees family members are invited to have a good time together. Last month, LIG Nex1 was chosen as one of the 2025 Koreas Best Work-Life Balance Companies by the Ministry of Employment and Labor for building a healthy and productive working environment. Under its slogan of Beyond Defense, Enabling Sustainability, the company plans to continue to create environmental and social values based on defense technologies and expand responsible and sustainable management.

Leading establishment of an independent supply chain through local development of defense semiconductor Development of AESA radar and ultra-compact high-performance semiconductor for SAR LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) will develop semiconductors for the active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, which is nicknamed eye in the sky, and the synthetic aperture radar (SAR) based on homegrown technologies. It is the first step to realize the national mission of semiconductor supply chain independence, directly linked to military security, going beyond mere technological development. On December 5, LIG Nex1 announced that it had signed an agreement for two research projects with the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) for the development of common X-band MMIC and front-end module platform for AESA radar and common broadband MMIC and front-end module platform for SAR on November 28. The semiconductor for AESA radar to be developed under the agreement is a key component applicable to multi-function radar, AESA radar for combat aircraft, low-observable unmanned swarm aircraft, radar for Korean-style stealth UAV, and broadband radar. The goal is to develop ultra-compact high-performance semiconductors for application to weapons systems. Defense semiconductor is an essential component the brain and heart of key weapons systems including radars, guided missiles, and military communications. However, there is high dependency on foreign products at present and this can be risky for military operations if insecurity deepens in global supply chains. Therefore, the Korean government is actively pursuing domestic development of defense semiconductors based on the recognition of the importance of establishing an independent supply chain to promote national security. Currently, LIG Nex1 has secured air-cooled AESA radar export capability. If it also succeeds in domestic development of semiconductors a key component of AESA radar through the new project, this is expected to result in the stable establishment of a supply chain for a future high-performance AESA radar project for manned-unmanned combat aircraft to be led by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD). Furthermore, it is likely to promote technological independence in radars and the overall defense industry, as well as help build the core foundation for a proactive response to changes in future battlefield environments. An official from LIG Nex1 said, The clock has started ticking for defense semiconductors made in the Republic of Korea. Self-reliance in defense semiconductors is highly significant because it provides a foundation for the stable operation of our militarys weapons systems, beyond mere technological development, and added, LIG Nex1 will do its utmost to contribute to successful domestic development based on close industry-research cooperation with KRIT and other organizations based on national-level support.