South Korea to Supply K2 Tanks and K808 Vehicles in Major New Deal with Peru

Peru has taken an important step toward modernizing its army. On December 9, 2025, the Peruvian and South Korean governments signed a major agreement in Lima that sets the stage for Peru to receive K2 Black Panther tanks and K808 armored vehicles. For Peru, this is the beginning of a long-awaited upgrade. For South Korea, it is its first sale of the K2 tank in Latin America, a milestone that shows how fast Korean defense technology is expanding worldwide.

The agreement was signed during the national celebration of the Battle of Ayacucho, a symbolic moment that connected Peru’s military past with its future. Top leaders from both countries attended the ceremony, showing how important this partnership is for both sides.

A New Path for Peru’s Military Industry

One of the most meaningful parts of this agreement is that Peru will not just buy vehicles—it will help build them. South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem and Peru’s state-owned company FAME S.A.C. will work together to produce and assemble nearly 195 armored vehicles inside Peru. This means Peruvian workers, engineers, and technicians will gain skills and take part in building the army’s future equipment.

The plan also includes training, long-term maintenance, and technology transfer. Peru wants this partnership to grow over time, eventually building a fleet of 150 K2 tanks and around 280 K808 vehicles in the coming years.

For Peru’s industry, this is a chance to become more capable and more independent.

Replacing Old Tanks After Many Years

For decades, Peru has relied on old T-54 and T-55 tanks, which have been in service since the Cold War era. The country had looked at several options to replace them, including American, Russian, and Ukrainian tanks, but no deal was finalized.

South Korea has slowly built a strong relationship with Peru, showing its tanks at local defense shows and working with FAME. Over time, the K2 Black Panther became the most attractive option, especially because it is designed for mountainous terrain, similar to what Peru’s army faces in many regions.

Why the K2 Tank Fits Peru’s Needs

The K2 Black Panther is one of the world’s most advanced tanks. It has a powerful main gun, a smart fire control system, and a strong engine that lets it move quickly even on difficult terrain. Its special suspension allows it to adjust its height and angle, giving the crew better control on hills or uneven ground.

Peru’s geography is full of mountains and steep landscapes, so the K2’s mobility is a major advantage. The tank is also built to be upgraded in the future, giving Peru the option to add new protection systems or digital equipment later.

Expanding Peru’s Armored Vehicle Fleet

The agreement also includes the K808 infantry vehicle, which will help transport soldiers safely across rough terrain. It offers protection from mines and bullets, can carry a full squad, and can be fitted with different weapon systems. More than 500 of these vehicles are already used by South Korea, and Peru will begin forming its own fleet, with some units being assembled locally.

Peru also displayed the first KIA KLTV light vehicles that recently arrived, showing how different types of South Korean vehicles will work together in its future army structure.

A Growing Role for South Korea in Global Defense

South Korea has been expanding its defense exports rapidly. After signing large deals with countries like Poland and Norway, entering the Latin American market is another major achievement. For South Korea, Peru’s decision shows trust in Korean technology and opens the door for more deals in the region.

A Symbolic Step Toward Modernization

During the ceremony, the Peruvian Army also presented a book celebrating 50 years of its General Headquarters. The message was clear: the army is honoring its past while building a stronger future.

If all stages of the agreement move forward, Peru will soon have one of the most modern armored forces in South America and a growing industrial capability to support it.