Key Takeaways
- Hanwha Aerospace, alongside 21 partner companies, will participate in NextRise 2026, showcasing key defense technologies.
- The event, held June 18-19 at COEX in Seoul, expects over 23,000 attendees and aims to foster partnerships with startups.
- The company will introduce 12 technology challenges in defense, aiming to enhance collaboration and innovation in the sector.
Hanwha Aerospace at NextRise 2026
Hanwha Aerospace is set to participate in the NextRise 2026 exhibition, the largest venture and startup event in Korea. Taking place at COEX in Seoul on June 18-19, the exhibition aims to showcase the company’s partnerships and technological capabilities in defense production. This marks Hanwha Aerospace as the first domestic integrated defense firm to join the event, which anticipates participation from over 540 companies and 23,000 visitors.
The company will feature a joint booth with 21 partner organizations in a special win-win cooperation zone. This area will display critical components for the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer and the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system. Notable displays will include the K9 Thunder driver’s instrument panel, a 360-degree video system, and a satellite navigation system with anti-jamming capabilities for the Chunmoo’s guided missiles. For items difficult to present physically, an interactive touchscreen zone will provide insights.
Additionally, Hanwha Aerospace aims to enhance innovation through a dedicated open innovation pavilion. The company plans to announce 12 technology challenges across various sectors, including ground and guided weapons as well as aviation. These challenges focus on critical areas such as anti-drone defense technology for the K9 Thunder and AI data processing for autonomous unmanned vehicles. Small and medium-sized companies, along with startups, will have opportunities to engage through programs supported by DAPA and the Seoul Center for Creative Economy & Innovation.
One-on-one meetings will be arranged between Hanwha Aerospace and six startups targeting the defense market, facilitating direct collaboration opportunities.
Cha Jun-ho, head of procurement at Hanwha Aerospace, emphasized that the success of defense equipment in international markets is a testament to their partner companies’ efforts and capabilities. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for Korea’s defense sector.
Following its previous involvement in major events, including the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) and the Eurosatory exhibition in France, Hanwha Aerospace continues to promote win-win cooperation, helping partner companies attract investments and grow sales channels. This participation at NextRise 2026 reflects its ongoing strategy to advance defense technologies and collaborations.
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