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South Korea to deploy new L-SAM air defense missile system to intercept North Korean ballistic missiles.


As reported by the Korea Herald on January 16, 2025, South Korea has approved the production of its new Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, allocating a budget of 1.73 trillion won (US$1.19 billion) for assembly through 2030. Developed to address missile threats, particularly from North Korea, the L-SAM is designed to intercept targets at altitudes between 40 and 60 kilometers. Initial deployment is planned for 2027, with full operationalization expected by the late 2020s.
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A standard L-SAM battery includes four truck-mounted launchers, each carrying six missiles designed to intercept ballistic missiles, aircraft, and cruise missiles at speeds up to Mach 8.82, ranges of 150 kilometers, and altitudes between 40 and 60 kilometers. (Picture source: South Korean Army)


The Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) development began in 2015 under the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) to address South Korea’s need for an upper-tier missile interceptor. The system was designed to counter North Korea’s ballistic missiles, including the KN-23 and KN-24, and to function within the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) framework. After exploratory development concluded in 2018, system development began in 2019 and was completed in November 2024, with contributions from Hanwha Aerospace and LIG Nex1. The L-SAM underwent multiple tests, achieving successful interceptions in three out of four trials conducted between 2022 and 2023. These tests validated the system’s capabilities, including its use of indigenous infrared imaging sensors, a Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS), and hit-to-kill technology.

A standard L-SAM battery comprises a multifunction S-band Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar for target detection and tracking, a command-and-control (C2) center to coordinate operations, a combat control station for interception guidance, and four truck-mounted launchers. Each launcher carries six missiles, split between anti-ballistic and anti-aircraft roles. The radar has a detection range of up to 310 kilometers, enabling early target identification. The C2 center ensures real-time responsiveness, while the combat control station manages engagement decisions and missile firing.

The L-SAM has demonstrated its combat capabilities through a series of tests, achieving three successful interceptions out of four attempts between 2022 and 2023. It is capable of intercepting targets traveling at speeds up to Mach 8.82 at ranges of 150 kilometers, at altitudes between 40 and 60 kilometers. Consisting of two types of interceptors (one for ballistic missiles and another for aircraft and cruise missiles), the L-SAM counters a wide range of high-speed and maneuverable threats. This is achieved through technologies such as hit-to-kill capability, infrared imaging sensors, a dual-pulse propulsion system for increased speed and maneuverability, and a Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) for real-time trajectory adjustments.

Within the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) framework, the L-SAM provides a critical upper-tier interception capability. It complements lower-tier systems like the KM-SAM and Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3), which address threats below 40 kilometers, while working alongside the THAAD system, which intercepts at altitudes up to 150 kilometers. The KAMD is a key element of South Korea’s three-axis defense strategy against North Korea, alongside the Kill Chain preemptive strike platform and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation (KMPR) system. Together, these systems create a multi-layered missile defense structure designed to enhance South Korea’s ability to intercept incoming threats.


The L-SAM air defense system uses technologies such as hit-to-kill capability, infrared imaging sensors, a dual-pulse propulsion system for increased speed and maneuverability, and a Divert and Attitude Control System (DACS) for real-time trajectory adjustments. (Picture source: South Korean Army)


The L-SAM could also work along other systems, such as the Chunmoo Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) and the low-altitude missile defense system (LAMD), which targets long-range artillery shells and low-altitude threats. Its modularity allows the L-SAM to adapt to various configurations, working in tandem with these systems to enhance overall defense capabilities.

The L-SAM-II, an enhanced version under development, will provide interception capabilities at altitudes up to 180 kilometers. Scheduled for completion by 2035, with a development budget of 2.71 trillion won (US$1.86 billion), it will include glide-phase interceptors to address hypersonic missile threats. The upgraded system aims to increase range, altitude, and target engagement capabilities, addressing emerging missile technologies.

Mass production of the L-SAM is expected to begin in 2025, with operational deployment by the late 2020s. The L-SAM-II will follow, with development continuing through 2035. Both systems are being produced domestically, utilizing South Korea’s defense manufacturing capabilities and expertise. This approach reduces reliance on foreign systems while enhancing operational flexibility.

The L-SAM and its successor will provide South Korea with expanded air defense capabilities, adding an upper-tier interception layer to its multi-layered defense system. These systems are expected to strengthen South Korea’s ability to counter ballistic missile threats, including those equipped with nuclear warheads, and address future challenges such as hypersonic weapons. This advancement supports the country’s strategic defense goals and its capacity to respond to evolving regional security dynamics.

Mass production of the L-SAM is expected to begin in 2025, with full deployment planned for the late 2020s. The system was showcased at the 75th Armed Forces Day in 2023, highlighting its role in South Korea’s defense strategy. The government also indicated potential for the system to be offered for export to international markets, as has been done with other South Korean defense systems.


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