South Korea Upgrades Cheongung Air Defense System to Counter Ballistic Missile Threats

South Korea has begun deploying the upgraded Cheongung-II surface-to-air missile system, which is now capable of intercepting both ballistic missiles and aircraft, the country’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced on Monday.

The deployment marks the initial rollout under the ‘Cheongung-II 2nd Project,’ a KRW 644 billion ($463.5 million) upgrade program focused on converting the existing Cheongung system—designed primarily for aircraft interception—into a ballistic missile-capable defense layer.

The Cheongung-II is a key asset of the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) network and is designed to strengthen mid-range interception in response to North Korea’s growing missile arsenal.

DAPA highlighted that upgrading current systems rather than introducing entirely new ones significantly reduced costs while also enhancing radar and control center performance. These upgrades improve low-altitude detection and allow for engagement with multiple threats simultaneously.

The first phase of Cheongung-II’s development—creating a new air and missile defense system—completed deployment earlier this year. The second phase, now underway, will expand and improve that system across existing military units, with full operational capability expected by 2027.

In addition to domestic use, the Cheongung-II has been exported to countries including the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, boosting South Korea’s defense exports.

DAPA stated it will continue to optimize the system’s performance and support international expansion efforts.