The deal is described as a decisive step forward in defense cooperation between Israel and South Korea.
By Shula Rosen
In a move that could reshape the future of Korean armored warfare, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Hyundai Rotem signed a teaming agreement at the MSPO 2025 defense exhibition to fit South Korea’s K2 main battle tanks with the Israeli Trophy Active Protection System.
The agreement, announced earlier this month in Kielce, Poland, covers integration, production, and full lifecycle support of the combat-proven system.
It cements a partnership that executives from both companies described as a decisive step forward in defense cooperation between Israel and South Korea.
Tzvi Marmor, executive vice president and head of Rafael’s Land and Naval Systems Division, said in a press release that the deal reflects “a shared commitment to advancing battlefield survivability for next-generation armored platforms.”
He noted that Rafael would bring its operational combat record while Hyundai Rotem contributes industrial capacity and technological strength.
For Hyundai Rotem, the partnership marks a first: the K2 tank and its Polish variant, the K2PL, will now carry an active protection system tested in battle.
“The Trophy APS offers a significant opportunity to enhance the protection of the K2,” said Hyung-Joon Jo, senior vice president and head of the firm’s Defense Solutions R&D Center.
He said the system would be fine-tuned for the tank and adapted to meet the needs of international customers.
Analysts say the collaboration could boost the K2’s competitiveness in global tenders, especially in Europe, where several armies are considering the platform.
The deal builds on an earlier memorandum of understanding and paves the way for joint development, local production, and exports.
It also marries Rafael’s unmatched experience with active protection technology to Hyundai Rotem’s advanced armored vehicle design.
For Seoul, the partnership promises more than just upgraded tanks. It signals a commitment to fielding cutting-edge systems that can give its land forces a sharper edge on tomorrow’s battlefield while strengthening defense ties with one of Israel’s most trusted allies in Asia.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!