LIG넥스원 판교하우스. [사진=LIG넥스원]

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SEOUL, December 05 (AJP) - South Korean defense contractor LIG Nex1 has launched a project to develop key semiconductors for active electronically scanned array (AESA) and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems using fully domestic technology.

The company said it signed agreements on Nov. 28 with the Defense Technology Promotion Research Institute to co-develop X-band common monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) and front-end module platforms for AESA radar, as well as broadband MMIC and front-end module platforms for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) SAR systems.

The AESA radar semiconductors will serve as essential components for multifunction radars, fighter aircraft, stealth UAVs and wideband radar platforms. The joint program aims to produce compact, high-performance chips capable of meeting next-generation weapon system requirements.

Defense-grade semiconductors are core elements for radar, precision-guided weapons and battlefield communications. South Korea currently depends heavily on foreign suppliers, raising concerns over potential vulnerabilities in the event of global supply chain disruptions.

LIG Nex1 is already developing an air-cooled AESA radar for overseas markets. Successful localization of radar semiconductors would ensure a stable component base for upcoming high-performance AESA radar programs spearheaded by the Defense Science Research Institute.

The initiative is seen as a significant step toward bolstering technological self-reliance in radar and broader defense systems, the company said.

* This article, published by Aju Business Daily, was translated by AI and edited by AJP.
Lee Seong-jin 기자 leesj@ajunews.com

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