On May 13, 2025, the United Arab Emirates officially presented the South Korean M-SAM-II ballistic missile interceptor system, also known as Cheongung Block-II, marking its first public appearance in the Middle East. Developed by LIG Nex1 and showcased under the umbrella of Hanwha Aerospace at IDEX 2025, the system reflects South Korea’s increasingly assertive role in the global defense market. Integrated alongside U.S.-made THAAD and PAC-3 systems, the M-SAM-II forms part of the UAE’s expanding multi-layered air and missile defense strategy, tailored to counter regional threats such as cruise missiles, ballistic projectiles, and UAVs.
The deployment of the M-SAM-II system in the Gulf marks a key milestone in South Korea’s defense export efforts and reflects a broader shift among Gulf states toward diversifying defense suppliers. Designed to intercept ballistic missiles and withstand saturation attacks in harsh environments, the M-SAM-II meets regional operational demands. As of June 2024, the UAE has received two of 12 planned batteries, first showcased during Sheikh Hamdan’s visit to Al-Dhafra Air Base. The $3.5 billion deal, signed in January 2022 during a visit by President Moon Jae-in, is South Korea’s largest defense export and includes local production, reinforcing UAE–South Korea defense ties.
The M-SAM-II is a next-generation medium-range surface-to-air missile system that intercepts ballistic threats during their terminal phase. The system operates within a range of 20 to 50 kilometers, with an interception altitude of 15 to 40 kilometers depending on the target type, and a maximum missile speed of Mach 5 (1.7 km/s). Its most critical technological assets include a multi-function Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, equipped with GaN-based high-output semiconductors and advanced digital signal architecture. This radar system is supported by an integrated front-end embedded cooling solution, essential for thermal stability and continuous high-power operation in hot climates like those of the Middle East. These innovations enhance radar output and tracking precision, ensuring effective engagement even during dense missile salvos.