On May 13, 2025, the United Arab Emirates officially presented the South Korean M-SAM-II ballistic missile interceptor system, also known as Cheongung Block-II, marking its first public appearance in the Middle East. Developed by LIG Nex1 and showcased under the umbrella of Hanwha Aerospace at IDEX 2025, the system reflects South Korea’s increasingly assertive role in the global defense market. Integrated alongside U.S.-made THAAD and PAC-3 systems, the M-SAM-II forms part of the UAE’s expanding multi-layered air and missile defense strategy, tailored to counter regional threats such as cruise missiles, ballistic projectiles, and UAVs. The deployment of the M-SAM-II system in the Gulf marks a key milestone in South Korea’s defense export efforts and reflects a broader shift among Gulf states toward diversifying defense suppliers. Designed to intercept ballistic missiles and withstand saturation attacks in harsh environments, the M-SAM-II meets regional operational demands. As of June 2024, the UAE has received two of 12 planned batteries, first showcased during Sheikh Hamdan’s visit to Al-Dhafra Air Base. The $3.5 billion deal, signed in January 2022 during a visit by President Moon Jae-in, is South Korea’s largest defense export and includes local production, reinforcing UAE–South Korea defense ties.

Full report : United Arab Emirates Boosts Air Defense Capabilities with M-SAM-II Integrating with US PAC 3 and THAAD.