South Korean DAPA to Upgrade K2 Tank Periscope, Frigate helicopter Transport System

South Korea has signed an agreement to upgrade the Army’s K2 tank driver’s thermal imaging periscope and the Navy’s frigate helicopter transport system as part of an 18-project military modernization effort worth 150.4 billion won ($105 million).

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) signed a business consignment agreement with the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality (KAQ) and the Defense Rapid Acquisition Technology Institute (SHIN) to accelerate the 2025 Current Force Performance Maximization Project. The agreement was signed Wednesday at the Gwacheon Government Complex.

The project aims to improve the performance, quality, and operability of military equipment based on field requirements. Since 2022, 44 projects have been completed under this initiative, enhancing combat capabilities and addressing military needs.

Under the agreement, 10 projects will be managed by KAQ, while SHIN will oversee eight. Planned upgrades include improving the Army’s K2 tank driver’s thermal imaging periscope, enhancing the Navy’s frigate helicopter transport system, upgrading the Air Force’s KAMD Operation Center software, and modifying the Army and Marine Corps’ ARTHUR-K1K generator. The total budget for the 18 projects is 150.4 billion won ($105 million).

A bid announcement is expected within the first half of the year after the business plan is finalized.