LIG Nex1 has formally launched the system development of the Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile-II (SRAAM-II), a critical program aimed at completing the close-combat air-to-air capability of South Korea’s indigenous fighter aircraft, the KF-21. The company announced that it has signed a contract with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) for system integration and missile prototype development under the SRAAM-II program.

Led by ADD, the project focuses on developing a domestically produced short-range air-to-air missile optimized for within-visual-range (WVR) combat, enhancing both lethality against enemy aircraft and survivability of friendly fighters.

The total program value is estimated at approximately USD 156 million (KRW 207 billion), with development scheduled to continue through 2032. The scope of work includes full system integration and the development of core missile subsystems, such as an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker, guidance and control unit, inertial navigation system, actuation system, and target detection components.

Once completed, the KF-21 will be capable of operating fully indigenous air-to-air and air-to-ground precision-guided weapons, marking a major milestone in South Korea’s pursuit of sovereign combat-aircraft capabilities.

Defense analysts note that the integration of a domestic short-range air-to-air missile significantly reduces reliance on foreign suppliers while strengthening operational flexibility and export attractiveness.

LIG Nex1 has already been selected as the system integrator for several key KF-21 weapons, including the Korean GPS-Guided Bomb (KGGB) and the long-range air-to-ground missile often referred to as the “Korean Taurus.” With the SRAAM-II program, the company further solidifies its role as the core developer of air-launched weapon systems for the KF-21.

The company is also preparing for future air-combat weapon programs, including potential long-range air-to-air missile development supported by internal investment.

At ADEX 2025, LIG Nex1 plans to showcase an expanded air-weapon portfolio, including the Korean Multi-Purpose Cruise Missile (L-MCM) and the Modular Smart Missile (L-MSM), designed for anti-ship, land-attack, and non-kinetic missions such as communications relay and electronic jamming.

K-DEFENSE NEWS | Strategic Analysis Desk

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