Middle Eastern Countries Desire Korean Weapons as Israel-Iran Conflict Rages

As the Israel-Iran conflict intensifies, several Middle Eastern countries are increasingly turning to South Korea to meet their evolving defense needs, with a strong focus on acquiring fighter jets, submarines, missile systems and helicopters.

Countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) are reportedly accelerating negotiations with Korean arms manufacturers amid rising geopolitical instability and the risk of a broader regional war. The appeal reportedly lies in South Korea’s ability to deliver modern systems quickly, customize them to local needs and offer competitive prices compared to U.S. or European suppliers.

According to koreajoongangdaily, interest has surged in several Korean systems including the KF-21 next-generation fighter jet, the Jangbogo-III Batch-II submarine, the Cheongung II medium-to-high altitude interceptor, and the KUH-1 Surion multipurpose helicopter.

Korea’s growing foothold in the Middle East reflects a broader shift in procurement policy. Traditionally dependent on American and Russian arms, Middle Eastern nations are now diversifying suppliers by engaging with firms in China, Europe, and increasingly, South Korea.

South Korean systems have already achieved notable export milestones. The Cheongung II air defense system has secured contracts worth 12.1 trillion won ($8.7 billion) from the U.A.E., Saudi Arabia and Iraq over the past three years. Additional contracts are reportedly under discussion.

Naval and aerial assets are also drawing regional attention. During the 2025 International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition held in Busan, Saudi Navy Chief of Staff Faisal al-Gharibi visited Hanwha Ocean’s booth to examine the 3,600-ton Jangbogo-III submarine. His delegation also inquired about HD Hyundai’s 6,500-ton frigate model.

The U.A.E. has signaled interest in the KF-21 fighter jet. U.A.E. Air Force Air Defense Commander Rashid Al Shamsi visited Korea Aerospace Industries’ (KAI) facilities in April, and Brig. Gen. Azzan A. Ali Al Nuaimi personally sat in a KF-21 prototype during the visit.

KAI has already delivered two Surion helicopters to Iraq and is now pursuing further exports to the region. “We’ve seen a sharp increase in visits and inquiries about our fighter jets and helicopters, especially from Middle Eastern countries,” a KAI official was quoted as saying by the report. “We will focus on country-specific strategies for countries such as the U.A.E. and Saudi Arabia to secure final export deals.”

Chae Woo-seok, executive director of the Korea Defense Industry Association, said the rise in demand stems from “urgent security needs” and that Korean systems are suited for nations that require quick deployment and improved deterrence capabilities.

“We expect greater demand for K-defense systems that can be delivered quickly in a region with high geopolitical risk,” said Chae. “Demand is expected to grow for weapons systems that strengthen air power and build aerial defense networks.”

One reason for turning away from American weapons could be Washington's intent to maintain Israel's “qualitative military edge” which means any weapons sold in the Middle East will be inferior to similar weapons with Israel. 

Note: During his previous term, U.S. President Donald Trump approved the sale of F-35 jets to the U.A.E., but the Biden administration delayed the process, prompting Abu Dhabi to withdraw from the negotiations.