The South Korean Hanwha Group is taking part for the first time in FIDAE 2026, the largest defense trade show in South America, in Santiago, Chile, showcasing integrated military solutions for land, naval, and space forces. The Tigon 6×6 armored vehicle, the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer, a SAR radar satellite, and submarines are among the key products presented by Hanwha, which is seeking to expand into the Latin American market. The exhibition is scheduled for April 7–12 this year.
Photo: Hanwha
Hanwha Aerospace, a company within the group, is showcasing a full-scale Tigon 6×6 wheeled armored vehicle with a modular design, equipped with a remote-controlled weapon station, as well as scale models of the 4×4 and 8×8 variants. The exhibit is intended to highlight the adaptability of the Tigon vehicle family to different missions and terrain conditions.
The K9A1 Thunder self-propelled howitzer and the K10 ammunition resupply and support vehicle are being presented as a ready-made artillery solution for Chile and the broader Latin American market. Meanwhile, the K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system, in addition to its upgraded launcher under the Performance Improvement Program (PIP), can employ multiple types of ammunition.
Hanwha Aerospace is also displaying a model of the K-NIFV (Korea Next Infantry Fighting Vehicle) next-generation tracked infantry fighting vehicle, an upgraded version of the AS21 Redback; the K-MPF (Korean Mobile Protective Firepower), a medium fire support vehicle armed with a 105 mm gun; and the TAipers (Tank Snipers) anti-tank guided missile.
Hanwha Systems is presenting a compact synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite with 0.25-meter resolution, capable of all-weather, day-and-night observation. The satellite data are combined with Hanwha’s proprietary AI-based image analysis solution, enabling faster and more accurate tactical decision-making.
Also on display is the Smart Battleship (HSC-2000), a next-generation multipurpose patrol vessel concept designed to operate in real time with unmanned systems. It combines a stealth-shaped hull design, an AI-based combat management system, and an integrated bridge system (IBS), enabling integrated command and control in multidomain maritime operations. Hanwha Systems is also presenting its CMS (Combat Management System) for undersea warfare, which uses artificial intelligence throughout the entire kill chain, from target detection to attack.
Hanwha Ocean is showcasing the 3,000-ton KSS-III Batch II submarine, the 2,000-ton Ocean 2000 submarine, and frigates in the 4,000-ton and 5,600-ton displacement classes. The Ocean 2000 is a platform optimized for South American operating conditions, while the KSS-III is a diesel-electric submarine capable of carrying submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). The 5,600-ton frigate incorporates the latest technologies, while the 4,000-ton frigate highlights Hanwha Ocean’s proven track record and competitiveness as a supplier.
Through this exhibition, the Hanwha Group plans to pursue marketing activities related to Chilean Navy programs and expand its local network in the region.
According to a Hanwha representative, the group aims to establish itself as a trusted long-term defense partner for Chile and the wider Latin American region by offering integrated solutions across the land, maritime, and space domains, while building that partnership on a solid understanding of Chile’s security requirements.
Based on a press release