South Korea Fits Trophy APS to K2 Tanks
Overview
South Korea will integrate Trophy APS for K2 tanks through a new partnership between Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Hyundai Rotem. The agreement covers integration, local production, and through-life support for the K2 and future Korean platforms. Notably, the system is the first operational active protection fit for a Korean main battle tank. It also spans the K2PL for Poland, which aligns with Warsaw’s 180-tank package and its NATO posture in Europe.
Why it matters for Seoul and Warsaw
The deal lands amid rapid regional change and sustained armour recapitalisation. The Trophy APS for K2 tanks delivers hard-kill defeat against rockets and anti-tank guided missiles, boosting survivability without heavy weight penalties. Moreover, the co-production approach should accelerate schedules and cut lifecycle costs. For Poland’s K2PL, the fit enhances deterrence, training commonality, and coalition logistics inside NATO.
Industrial path and export options
Rafael and Hyundai Rotem will co-develop and manufacture components in Korea. Consequently, Trophy APS for K2 tanks could anchor a broader export ecosystem around K2 upgrade kits. This pathway also supports future Korean platforms and allied fleets that seek interoperable, field-proven protection.
Programme context: MSPO and DSEI
The companies signed the collaboration at MSPO 2025 in Kielce, Poland. The timing underscores Europe’s armoury focus and Poland’s defence buildup. For additional context, see the MSPO organiser’s page. Meanwhile, the UK’s DSEI opens on 9 September in London. Despite the Israeli government withdrawing its participation due to an organizer’s decision, European stakeholders continue to show strong interest in Trophy APS for K2 tanks.
Capability pedigree and fleet fit
Trophy is billed as the only fully integrated, combat-proven APS widely fielded by NATO members. It already equips the U.S. M1 Abrams, Israel’s Merkava and Namer, the UK’s Challenger, and Germany’s Leopard 2. Therefore, Trophy APS for K2 tanks aligns the K2 with Western protection standards and simplifies joint training. For readers tracking regional programs, explore our Asia-Pacific coverage and our Europe desk.
Bottom line
By adopting Trophy APS for K2 tanks, Seoul strengthens its armoured survivability while building industrial depth and exports. Poland’s K2PL gains immediate operational benefits. For deeper K2 background, see our dedicated Trophy APS tag, and the Defense News Today homepage.
References
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems – Trophy APS: https://www.rafael.co.il/
- Hyundai Rotem – K2 MBT: https://www.hyundai-rotem.co.kr/
- MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition: https://www.targikielce.pl/en/mspo
- DSEI (Defence & Security Equipment International): https://www.dsei.co.uk/
