South Korea Completes Development of Next-Generation KVLS-II

South Korea has successfully completed the development of the Korean Vertical Launching System-II (KVLS-II), a next-generation missile launching system designed to strengthen the nation’s naval power. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a ceremony on September 25, 2025, at Hanwha Aerospace’s Changwon 2 plant to celebrate the achievement. Senior representatives from the Republic of Korea Navy, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality (DTAQ), and the Defense Rapid Acquisition Technology Research Institute (DRATRI) attended the event.

The KVLS-II development project is a landmark success because it was led by the private sector rather than the government. Hanwha Aerospace took charge of the project with technical support from the ADD, while the government invested about 71 billion won. Launched in late 2020, the program was completed on time and within budget—a significant achievement in high-tech defense projects.

The new system is a major upgrade over the existing KVLS. KVLS-II can withstand the high temperatures and extreme pressure generated when launching more powerful modern missiles. It introduces the “Any Cell, Any Missile” concept, allowing one launch cell to fire ship-to-air, ship-to-surface, or ship-to-ship missiles depending on operational needs. Its redundant design ensures that the system continues functioning even if one part fails, increasing reliability and safety.

The system will first be deployed on the KDX-III Batch II Aegis destroyer, which was delivered to the Republic of Korea Navy at the end of last year. It will also be installed on the future KDDX destroyer class, currently under planning and construction. KVLS-II is also capable of handling hypersonic cruise missiles, making it future-ready.

Comparison with Other Systems

Globally, vertical launching systems (VLS) are used by leading navies, including the United States and Japan. The U.S. Mk 41 VLS is widely used on destroyers and cruisers and supports multiple missile types, similar to KVLS-II. Japan’s Mk 41 and indigenous VLS systems also allow flexible missile deployment. Compared to these, KVLS-II is smaller in footprint but highly versatile, featuring advanced redundancy and the “Any Cell, Any Missile” capability, which makes it extremely adaptable for modern naval combat. This puts South Korea’s VLS on par with some of the most advanced systems in the world, while also showcasing domestic design and manufacturing excellence.

Beyond its military value, KVLS-II demonstrates the potential of private industry leadership in defense development, supported by government and naval expertise. By completing a complex weapons system without delays or cost overruns, South Korea has proven it can compete with leading global defense industries. The system could also have export potential, attracting interest from countries seeking modern, flexible naval launchers.

Officials praised the combined efforts of government agencies, the Navy, and Hanwha Aerospace, calling the project a model of cooperation. They stressed that KVLS-II will greatly enhance national defense capabilities and serve as a foundation for future innovation in the Korean defense industry.

In simple terms, KVLS-II is a smarter, tougher, and more flexible missile launcher for Korean warships. It allows ships to carry different missiles in the same launcher, ensures safer and more reliable operations, and prepares the Navy to handle new types of advanced weapons. With this achievement, South Korea has taken another strong step toward building a self-reliant and modern defense system.