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First development of “active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for manned-unmanned combat aircraft and broadband SAR defense semiconductor for unmanned aircraft” commenced
2025.12.05
· 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 military’s 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.”