Defense executives urge faster shift to software-driven systems in Korea

Aerospace and defense executives urged South Korea's industry Monday to accelerate its adoption of software-driven defense technology and autonomous systems, according to The Korea Times. Speaking at a forum in Jinju, they called for faster prototype development and closer partnerships with startups and smaller suppliers.

Executives said government-led development and traditional defense procurement move too slowly for a market increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and autonomous systems. Their proposals focused on strengthening software capabilities while using industrial partnerships to shorten development cycles.

The forum's third session brought together representatives of Anduril Korea, AeroVironment, Korean Air, LIG Defense & Aerospace and ANH Structure, The Korea Times reported. Patrick Donahoe, chief operating officer of Columbus State University, moderated the discussion.

John Kim, head of Anduril Korea, said companies should demonstrate prototypes within six months rather than wait for government programs. He cited Anduril's Lattice AI and software integration platform and its Roadrunner autonomous air vehicle as examples of software-driven defense capabilities.

Kim Ha-neul, head of overseas business development at Korean Air, identified physical AI, scalable mass production and software-defined defense as key trends. He said companies should pursue partnerships with innovative startups alongside their government contracts to accelerate development and obtain critical technology.

Shin Ik-hyun, president of LIG Defense & Aerospace, emphasized cleaning and reorganizing data before deploying AI, according to the report. He also called for corporate decisions grounded in evidence and expert input.

Ahn Hyon-su, CEO of ANH Structure, advocated bringing smaller suppliers into development work early. He said collaboration with large manufacturers should offer opportunities to share risks and grow together.

The forum's first day also concluded with ANH Structure signing a long-term agreement with Britain's Vertical Aerospace to design, develop, certify and manufacture pilot and passenger seats for its Valo electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, according to The Korea Times. The seating platform will incorporate ANH Structure's proprietary 30G energy-absorption technology for crash protection.