LIG Nex1 unveiled the unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) G-Sword at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025, which opened on the 20th. This is the first time LIG Nex1, which has invested its capabilities in guided weapons such as the medium-range surface-to-air missile Cheongung and in electronic warfare, has showcased a ground weapon. LIG Nex1 plans to use the G-Sword to knock on the door of exports.
According to the defense industry on the 23rd, the G-Sword, unveiled for the first time at this year's ADEX, is a next-generation unmanned vehicle platform that can carry various mission payloads such as a remote controlled weapon station (RCWS), missiles, and drones. LIG Nex1 is combining its artificial intelligence (AI) technology and radar so that the G-Sword can perceive its surroundings and even operate with autonomous driving.
The G-Sword, together with the unmanned surface vessel Haegum-X unveiled at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) 2025 in May, is expected to become a future unmanned weapon system. The Haegum-X and G-Sword apply the defense unmanned system family-and-modularization concept (K-MOSA). The core of this concept is to standardize specifications so that each weapon system is compatible and to apply common software. LIG Nex1 is developing the G-Sword to perform missions such as fire support, coastal surveillance, drone defense, and resupply on land.
The industry is paying attention to the fact that LIG Nex1 has expanded its platform from unmanned surface vessels to unmanned vehicles. That is because LIG Nex1 had never showcased a ground weapon even once. A military official said, "The completely new platform at this exhibition was the G-Sword." There is also an assessment that LIG Nex1 is making a full-fledged entry into the unmanned vehicle field by developing a UGV to use the G-Sword for multiple purposes.
LIG Nex1 explained that, as the development direction of all weapon systems is moving toward manned–unmanned teaming, it is proactively showcasing its technological capabilities. A LIG Nex1 official said, "We presented a future business vision centered on a manned–unmanned teaming system like the Haegum-X." LIG Nex1 is considering overseas rather than the domestic market as the target market for the G-Sword.
Competition to preempt the unmanned vehicle market is unfolding fiercely in Korea. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration is proceeding with the selection process for a multipurpose unmanned vehicle contractor, and Hanwha Aero and Hyundai Rotem have participated in the project.
An industry official said, "As unmanned projects for weapon systems are bound to increase, competition will be inevitable," adding, "LIG Nex1 also appears to be expanding its business scope to win contracts."