South Korea to Assess K9, Cheonmu, Cheonma Weapon Systems for Upgrades

South Korea has launched a field support mission to assess the performance and operability of key weapon systems—including the K9 howitzer, Cheonmu rocket launcher, and Cheonma missile system—with the goal of identifying areas for operational improvement.

The Defense Agency for Technology and Quality (DTaQ) began a field-based weapon system support operation on May 13 on Baengnyeong Island, South Korea’s northernmost territory in the West Sea. The three-day mission will run through May 15.

The operation involves a joint team of about 40 specialized maintenance personnel from the DTaQ, the Republic of Korea Army’s 70th Maintenance Battalion, and five defense companies—Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, Hyundai Rotem, LIG Nex1, and Wintec. Their task is to inspect military hardware, resolve operational issues, and provide hands-on maintenance support to local military units.

Key weapons being assessed include the K9 self-propelled howitzer, K10 ammunition resupply vehicle, Cheonmu multiple rocket launcher, Biho mobile air defense system, and Cheonma short-range surface-to-air missile system.

This year’s activities go beyond routine inspections. The teams will also look for ways to improve the operational performance of major export weapon systems and deliver technical feedback to developers and military commanders.

“The close military support team is being operated by the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality to establish a close collaboration system between the military and defense industry,” said Jang Bong-gi, head of the agency’s Quality Research Division. “Through this activity, we will improve the operability of our military’s weapons systems and contribute to strengthening the military readiness posture in the northwestern island region.”

Baengnyeong Island lies near the maritime border with North Korea and is considered a strategically sensitive location. These field activities are part of South Korea’s broader efforts to maintain readiness and ensure the functionality of deployed weapon systems in remote areas.