Hanwha to Debut AI-Enabled Loitering Precision-Guided Weapon at Saudi Defense Show

By Oh Jooseok Posted : February 4, 2026, 17:30 Updated : February 4, 2026, 17:30
Rendering of the Hanwha booth at WDS 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Hanwha Aerospace)
Rendering of the Hanwha booth at WDS 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Hanwha Aerospace)
Hanwha is set to unveil advanced weapons systems to the global market for the first time, including an artificial intelligence-enabled “loitering precision-guided weapon (L-PGW).”

Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Ocean said Tuesday they will take part in the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from Feb. 8-12 with their largest-ever integrated booth, covering 677 square meters (including 50 square meters outdoors). The biennial show is being held for the third time this year, with 773 companies from 76 countries participating.

Hanwha Aerospace’s L-PGW is described as a next-generation capability in which AI independently scouts, identifies and strikes targets. The system uses a new concept in which a suicide drone separates and launches at the moment of attack. Hanwha said it will be the weapon’s first public showing in the global advanced-arms market, which has been led by major U.S. and European firms.

Hanwha Systems will also present its vision for AI-based future weapons spanning surveillance and reconnaissance, space and maritime operations. It plans to debut a multipurpose radar (MMR) designed to operate with ground weapon systems and counter evolving low-altitude air threats such as drones.

The companies will showcase an AI-based combat management system (CMS), an AESA-based four-sided fixed multifunction radar (MFR), and a “smart battleship” concept incorporating unmanned systems and stealth design. A K9A1 self-propelled howitzer fitted with an STX Engine from South Korea will be displayed as a physical unit and was built to meet Saudi export requirements. Hanwha will also exhibit the Jangbogo-III Batch-II 3,000-ton-class submarine launched in a ceremony last October, along with a submarine base, surface ships and unmanned surface vessels.

A Hanwha official said the company will work as “one team” with the South Korean government to develop global markets and enter overseas markets with partner firms, adding it will “make a practical contribution” to Saudi Arabia’s defense and industrial self-reliance and strengthen a strategic partnership.



* This article has been translated by AI.

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