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2025-11-11

Growing Together: UAE and LIG Forge a Shared Defence Future

Ahead of the Dubai Airshow, Ickhyun Shin, CEO of LIG, shared his insights on the company’s global leadership, its expanding footprint in the Middle East, and its vision for the future of defence innovation.

As the regional defence market enters a period of rapid growth, Shin emphasised the company’s commitment to deepening its partnerships and advancing localisation efforts in the UAE — not only delivering cutting-edge solutions, but also building a lasting ecosystem that supports the nation’s long-term defence and industrial ambitions.

Could you introduce LIG to our readers?

Founded in 1976, LIG has grown into one of South Korea’s leading defence innovators, advancing hand in hand with the nation’s defence industry for nearly 50 years. More than half of our employees work in research and development (R&D), and many hold advanced degrees — a reflection of our deep commitment to technology, excellence, and innovation. We provide end-to-end defence solutions spanning development, production, and maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services.

Today, LIG Nex1 is evolving into a future-focused company, driving advancements in unmanned systems, artificial intelligence, and space technologies. Through these efforts, LIG not only strengthens Korea’s defence capabilities but also reinforces its standing as a trusted, forward-looking partner in the global defence community.

What has been LIG’s track record and vision in the Middle East market?

Our partnership with the UAE is both long-standing and strategic. What began as a traditional supplier–buyer relationship has grown into a true collaboration. Together, we have carried out joint development programmes for tactical guided weapons and launched successful local production initiatives — efforts that have deepened mutual trust and strengthened our shared capabilities. Today, the UAE serves as a key hub for third-country exports, helping us expand our cooperative reach into global markets.

Looking ahead, we view the UAE as a vital partner in co-marketing and co-development — driving innovation and shared growth across the defence sector.

At the same time, LIG remains the sole system integrator for Korea’s Medium Surface-to-Air Missile (MSAM) Block II/III and Long-range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) Block I/II programmes. Our consistent track record in both government-led and self-funded projects continues to reinforce our credibility and reliability throughout the Middle East.

Could you elaborate on your Make it in the Emirates plans for the UAE?

In full support of the UAE’s Make it in the Emirates initiative, LIG is establishing a local presence — building production hub and driving comprehensive technology transfer programmes. Our goal is to be recognised not just as a supplier, but as a co-developer and trusted partner, actively contributing to the UAE’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities.

LIG stands ready to deliver future-focused solutions built on decades of proven expertise and innovation. Our commitment goes beyond supply; we aim to be a true co-developer and trusted partner, fostering close collaboration between the next generation of Korean and Emirati professionals to strengthen indigenous capability.

Through this partnership, LIG seeks to contribute not only advanced solutions but also a sustainable ecosystem that supports the UAE’s long-term defence and industrial vision.

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