News
Participation in the 2026 WDS, showcasing next-generation national defense solutions and expanding the foothold of K-defense in the Middle East
2026.02.09
#2026 WDS
#All-domain
#integrated solutions
#weapon systems
#manned-unmanned integrated systems
#exhibition
• All-domain integrated solutions presented, including an integrated air defense network, next-generation aerial weapon systems, and manned-unmanned integrated systems
• Joint exhibition hall prepared with partner companies in the A1 Society for shared growth through global marketing support
LIG Nex1 (CEO: Shin Ick-hyun) pursued expansion in the Middle East market by showcasing next-generation integrated defense solutions encompassing an integrated air defense network, next-generation aerial weapon systems, and manned-unmanned integrated systems.
The company participated in the World Defense Show 2026, one of the largest international defense exhibitions in the Middle East, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for five days from February 8.
This year, more than 770 companies from 76 countries were expected to take part in the WDS, a leading defense exhibition in the region, along with over 440 foreign delegations.
● Multi-layered defense: All-domain integrated solutions across air, land, and sea
1. A multi-layered air defense network: A key driver of the K-defense boom in Saudi Arabia
Following the export of M-SAM-II to Saudi Arabia in 2024, opening up a new market for K-defense, the company showcased missiles, including the M-SAM, L-SAM, LAMD, and Chiron, providing a multi-layered defense network capable of simultaneous responses to missiles, drones, and aerial threats. The exhibits also included the Weapon Locating Radar-II and Stand-off Jammer, highlighting an outstanding defense system that links detection, interception, and electronic warfare.
2. Air: Key systems for precision strikes and air superiority
Next-generation aerial weapon systems capable of achieving air superiority and precision strikes were also introduced. Additional exhibits included medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles that will expand the operational range of ground forces and various types of guided missiles, such as a long-range air-to-surface missile for precision strikes on key enemy targets from long distance; a Korean-style short range air-to-air missile to enhance survivability in close-range air combats; a long-range air-to-air missile for beyond-visual-range combats; an air-to-ship missile for rapid precision strikes on maritime targets from long distance; and a multi-purpose cruise missile (L-MCM) that LIG Nex1 is developing in-house.
3. Land: Integrated solutions for increased operational efficiency and survivability
Ground-launched guided weapons, such as the Raybolt anti-tank guided missile, the L-Sword unmanned surface vehicle capable of countering drone attacks, and Vision 60 from Ghost Robotics, which will lead manned-unmanned integrated solutions across both defense and civilian sectors were exhibited. LIG Nex1 presented a vision for future ground forces that enables effective responses to drone and tank attacks while significantly improving troop survivability and operational efficiency.
4. Sea: An integrated maritime unmanned and naval vessel system
In the maritime domain, an integrated mast installed on surface ships, a combat management system (CMS), a close-in weapon system (CIWS-II), the 2.75inch Poniard guided rocket, the SAAM anti-ship missile defense missile, an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) for mine detection, and the Haegeom-III unmanned surface vessel were showcased, demonstrating unmanned surveillance and strike capabilities on the surface of the sea and underwater.
LIG Nex1 also introduced solutions for all domains of the battlefield along with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), a key platform company in Korea, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, and EOST, a leading electro-optics company. LIG Nex1 planned to showcase the industrial ecosystem of K-defense to meet diversified customer demands based on its value chain extending from platforms to mission-specific solutions.
● Shared growth for K-defense business expansion and export increase
LIG Nex1 organized a joint exhibition hall to support global marketing for its partner companies once again. Ten member companies of the A1 Society – Kyungwon Industry, Green Optics, Danam Systems, MICROINFINITY, VITZRO MILTECH, RF Systems, LC Tech, KS System, Qnion, and FIRSTEC – took part in the exhibition showcasing their leading products and solutions.
LIG Nex1 has operated a joint exhibition hall for its partners at major domestic and overseas defense exhibitions for several years. It is also continuing various support activities for shared growth, including a mutual growth fund to support management, technological support for localization of key parts and reliability tests, quality management, defense technology protection activities, and ESG management.
● K-defense taking a leap forward with the export of M-SAM-II and building a joint ecosystem in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is implementing a defense localization strategy with the goal of localizing over 50 percent of its defense budget by 2030. LIG Nex1 will take advantage of its attendance at the WDS to discuss developing local production and MRO cooperation systems with Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI), a state-owned defense company, General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), and numerous local defense companies. The company plans to continue its efforts to extend the outcome of the M-SAM-II export to a collaborative ecosystem for K-defense and the Middle East.