Saudi Arabia Acquiring KM-SAM II (Korean Patriot) Defense System
In a significant development, Saudi Arabia is nearing the final stages of procuring the “Cheongung II (KM-SAM Block II)” air defense system, popularly known as the “Korea Patriot.” The deal, valued at $3.2 billion, involves the acquisition of 10 batteries of the KM-SAM Block II medium-range air defense system from South Korean defense company LIG Nex1.
The announcement came after a meeting between South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the World Defense Show in Riyadh.
Under the agreement, the missile system will be adapted to meet Saudi requirements and re-designated as SA-MSAM. The interceptors will be manufactured by LIG Nex1, while Hanwha Systems will supply the multifunction active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.
During the state visit, South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik and Saudi counterpart Khalid bin Salman Al Saud signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance defense cooperation. This includes establishing a joint committee and forming a working group dedicated to weapons systems research and development and production.
This deal underscores the growing prominence of South Korean air defense missile systems in the Middle East, following a similar agreement in 2022 where South Korea sold a KM-SAM package to the United Arab Emirates for $3.5 billion.
Saudi Arabia is reportedly seeking to enhance its air defense system in response to the provocations by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, who have launched offensives using rockets, ballistic missiles, and drones.