
South Korea’s arms procurement agency announced Monday that it has introduced a new communication system compatible with walkie-talkies and smartphones, aimed at enhancing battlefield information sharing.
According to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, the Soldier Battlefield Visualization System enables users to share various types of information, including text messages and image data of targets detected through optical sights with allied forces. The system supports both walkie-talkies and smartphones for its operation.
The agency emphasized that the system is expected to enhance individual combat efficiency and survivability by enabling combatants to fire from concealed or covered positions without exposing themselves to enemy fire.
This project passed a suitability test for combat use in June 2024, with related defense standards finalized in July. Local defense electronics manufacturer Hanwha Systems led the development. The agency stated that it aims to begin mass production by 2027.
Additionally, the agency announced that it also completed upgrades to the Air Force's computer-based simulation system designed for realistic combat command training exercises.
The upgrade integrated 27 new assets, including the F-35A fighter jet and Taurus missiles. It also expanded the number of operation types that can be simulated from seven to 20.
The simulation enables detailed step-by-step mock operations, from mission planning and deployment to enemy detection and engagement, without mobilizing actual forces.