South Korea showcases laser anti-drone tech and AI drones on Armed Forces Day
South Korea marked the 78th Armed Forces Day with a public display of cutting-edge weapons, including laser-based anti-drone systems and AI-controlled drone swarms.
On the runway of the Gyuryong military headquarters, South Korea celebrated the 78th anniversary of its armed forces with a showcase of roughly 70 advanced systems and 3,600 participating personnel. The highlight was the debut of two Cheongwang laser-based anti-drone platforms capable of neutralising small UAVs, complemented by AI-powered drone swarms, multipurpose unmanned ground vehicles and counter-drone interceptor drones.
The ceremony posthumously awarded the Chungmu Order of Military Merit to the late Lt. Col. Kim Oh-rang and late Ssg. Jung Seon-yeop for their resistance to the 1979 military coup. The day also featured cultural events, the Army’s largest festival, and a performance by the Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team. Future editions will expand to include major Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps displays to underline South Korea’s self-reliant defence posture.
Why it matters
The display highlights South Korea's advancing defence technology and its emphasis on self-reliant security.
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