Hyundai-made Armored Vehicle Completes South Korean Army’s Field Trials

Hyundai Rotem-built K-808 wheeled armored vehicle will be mass-produced in the second half of 2018 as it has satisfied operational requirements during a recent field test, the South Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said Monday.

The vehicle designed and built by the Hyundai Rotem Co, a unit of Hyundai Motor Group, successfully underwent the test in field units, such as the Army's 25th and 37th Divisions, from April through last month, Korea Herald said based on a Yonhap News report.

"It is weapons system that will enhance infantry troops' capabilities to carry out their missions and further evolve the operational concept of future troops," a DAPA official was quoted as saying in the report.

The DAPA believes that when mass production begins, it will create more jobs and help boost the country's arms exports.

The vehicle is equipped with run-flat tires designed to cope with the effects of deflation when punctured, and a tire air control system that modulates air pressure to fit road conditions to ensure high mobility.

The K-808 was developed from 2012 to 2016 with a budget of around 22.2 billion won ($19.7 million).