Introduction of the K-NIFV: South Korea’s Localized Infantry Fighting Vehicle
Hanwha Aerospace has recently showcased its Korean New Infantry Fighting Vehicle (K-NIFV), designed to fulfill the evolving requirements of the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA). This vehicle was unveiled during the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025, which is taking place from October 17 to 24.
Design and Development
The K-NIFV is a localized variant of the AS21 Redback, originally developed for the Australian Army. The Redback is derived from the K21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle, which is already in operation with the RoKA.
Key Modifications
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Subsystem Localization:
- The redesign prioritizes the substitution of foreign components for South Korean alternatives. This strategic move not only enhances domestic industry engagement but also ensures reliability in supply and support.
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Armament and Turret Changes:
- The turret system has undergone significant alteration; the manned turret supplied by Elbit Systems in the Redback has been exchanged for an unmanned turret, engineered by Hanwha Aerospace. This new turret supports either a domestically produced 30 mm cannon or a case-telescoped 40 mm cannon.
- The vehicle is equipped with an indigenous version of the mine-protection kit, replacing the Plasan solution used in the Redback.
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Missile System Adaptation:
- The Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missile from Rafael has been replaced with Hanwha Aerospace’s TAipers-L system, signifying a marked shift toward domestic defense capabilities.
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Active Protection System (APS):
- A newly designed hard-kill APS is being integrated into the K-NIFV, superseding the Iron Fist system from Elbit Systems. Hanwha Systems is developing this APS, with an expected completion timeline set for 2026.
Conclusion
The K-NIFV represents a strategic advancement in South Korea’s military modernization efforts, reflecting a commitment to enhance self-reliance in defense capabilities. By focusing on local alternatives, the RoKA not only strengthens its operational readiness but also fosters growth within the national defense manufacturing sector. As details continue to emerge, the K-NIFV is poised to play a significant role in the future landscape of South Korean armored warfare.
