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South Korea Announces Deployment of Indigenous Bunker-Buster Missile

South Korea will deploy a locally developed surface-to-surface bunker-buster missile this year, according to the country’s defense ministry.

The Korean Tactical Surface to Surface Missile-I (KTSSM-I) is Seoul’s precision strike capability against North Korean artillery hidden in caves and tunnels.

Hanwha Corporation developed the GPS-guided missile from 2014 to 2017 along with the state-funded Agency for Defense Development.

Mass production started in 2020 and induction took place in 2022.

Features

The 400-millimeter missile has a range of 180 kilometers (112 miles) and a warhead capable of ground penetration of a couple of meters, according to Yonhap News Agency.

It can only be launched by fixed platforms.

KTSSM-II

Meanwhile, an upgraded KTSSM-I is being developed for 290 billion South Korean won ($218 million).

Development is expected to run through 2027 with the first test taking place in January.

The KTSSM-II will have a range of 290 kilometers (180 miles) and greater penetration than its predecessor.

Moreover, it will be fixed on a ground vehicle for greater mobility.

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