[비즈한국] South Korean mine detectors, equipped with top-tier detection capabilities and advanced technology, are gaining attention in Europe. With the recent prolongation of the Russia-Ukraine war, demand for mine detectors is expected to rise. This is because landmines planted by Russian forces must be cleared as Ukraine recovers its territory and begins the subsequent process of urban reconstruction.
MCS Tech Completes Development of Export-Oriented Mine Detector
MCS Tech, a specialized domestic developer of mine detectors, has completed the development of a new digital mine detector (PRS-17KM) and has begun targeting global markets including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Established in 2002, MCS Tech is a defense components company specializing in the development and manufacturing of electronic warfare, radar, and guided weapon parts. The company entered the mine detector business in earnest in 2021 after acquiring the business rights and technology for the older analog portable mine detector (PRS-17K) from LIG Nex1079550.
The company was selected for a development project in 2021 after proposing the "New Digital Portable Mine Detector (PRS-17KM)" for a retrofit development project overseen by the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality. Within a year and a half of starting development, it succeeded in achieving enhanced detection performance compared to existing equipment while making it smaller and lighter.
Performance tests conducted over one month starting in July of this year at the ROK Army Engineer School, the official testing site for the Army, showed a detection rate of nearly 100%. The device has also been recognized for its excellence in evaluations by professional agencies in Cambodia, leading to practical discussions for exports.
The PRS-17KM, which has undergone test evaluations by domestic and international agencies, can detect not only metal mines but also all types of landmines with very fine metallic components, such as M-14 blast mines (non-metallic) and wooden box mines.
Europe is also showing interest in MCS Tech's mine detectors. Last July, the company was the only small-to-medium enterprise to participate in the "Korea-Romania Defense Industry Cooperation Conference," co-hosted by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and the Romanian Ministry of National Defense, and in September, it participated in the "Poland MSPO Defense Exhibition," laying the groundwork for entry into Europe.
Lee Hyun-joong, CEO of MCS Tech, explained, "While the status of K-Defense has risen through the export of various weapon systems, there have been no export records for mine detectors. Over one million landmines remain buried in the DMZ, the world's largest minefield. Because of this, countries that have ended wars are showing great interest in the mine detectors used by our military, and we are receiving export inquiries."
Hanwha Systems and Woori-Byul Supply Portable Multi-Function Mine Detectors to the Military
A portable multi-function mine detector (HMMD) developed for export through the cooperation of Hanwha Systems and Woori-Byul is also aiming at the global market.
Established in 1992, Woori-Byul is a company specializing in advanced defense electronic systems and public sector SI projects. Woori-Byul supplies core components, specifically Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Metal Detection (MD) modules, for the HMMD manufactured by Hanwha Systems.
The portable multi-function mine detector uses dual sensors to detect not only metal mines but also non-metallic mines. The application of GPR technology has significantly improved detection performance, including detection rates and depth. GPR is a device that detects targets and finds their locations using radio wave characteristics.
The location and depth of detected objects are displayed in real-time. It weighs less than 3.0kg, making it easy to carry, and it is capable of underwater detection. A feature to visually confirm detected mines has also been added. This increases the detection rate while lowering the false alarm rate.
Another advantage is that it is being used by the military in actual operations in South Korea, which is known as one of the world's most mine-contaminated countries. It is known that about 2 million mines are buried in the DMZ and about 3,000 in rear areas. Providing future military operational records will be a great help in exports.
Hanwha Systems has been supplying mine detectors to the military since 2022. They are being supplied to the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps for operational use. Hanwha Systems also showcased its mine detectors at the Poland MSPO 2023 last year to pioneer export channels in the European market.
Kim Soo-hong, Executive Director of Woori-Byul's New Business Division, said, "We have received orders and inquiries from many countries regarding the portable multi-function mine detector. We plan to enter the global market after completing domestic military distribution. We are preparing export versions tailored to the specifications desired by each country."