# South Korea Advances War-Sustaining Defense Capabilities

South Korea's defense industry is undergoing a strategic transformation to prioritize war-sustaining capabilities over traditional weapons procurement. This shift reflects a global market trend emphasizing local production, maintenance, supply chain resilience, and technology collaboration. To achieve its goal of becoming a top-four global defense exporter by the 2030s, South Korea aims to expand into U.S. and NATO markets and secure large-scale acquisition projects. Government reforms and increased participation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are critical to supporting this ecosystem export model.

- South Korean procurement professionals should anticipate increased emphasis on integrated defense ecosystems rather than standalone weapons systems.
- Contractors and suppliers can explore opportunities in maintenance, supply chain services, and technology partnerships aligned with South Korea's evolving defense export strategy.
- The shift signals potential collaboration and competition in U.S. and NATO defense markets, requiring alignment with international standards and interoperability.
- Organizations involved in defense acquisitions should monitor South Korea's government structural reforms and SME engagement initiatives to identify partnership and subcontracting prospects.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 20, 2026

### Government Entities
- Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)
- U.S. Army
- Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS)
- Defense Acquisition Program Administration
- Cheong Wa Dae

### Vendors
- ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (preferred negotiator for Canada's submarine project)

### Key Quotes
> The global arms market is swiftly shifting from a "weapons procurement market" to a "market for securing war-sustaining capabilities."
> — Jang Won-jun, Professor of Advanced Defense Science

### Sources
- [K-Defense: War-Sustaining Capabilities Over Weapons ](https://www.chosun.com/english/opinion-en/2026/09/20/TURUEAKMWFCIJD5TCOEPB4IEQY) - 조선일보