The IFV is capable of destroying enemy helicopters and tanks.
It boasts some of the world’s most advanced features, has high exportability and is
    expected to play an important role in future battlefield operations.


Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD), in partnership with 11 domestic defense contractors led by Doosan Infracore, developed the K21, a high-tech amphibious infantry-fighting vehicle. Two prototypes of the 25-ton vehicle were unveiled to the public during a ceremony at the ADD General Test Site in Anheung, South Chungcheong Province on June 29. More than 700 people from the defense industry and government were in attendance, including Defense Minister Kim Jang-soo, ROK Army Chief of Staff Park Heung-ryul, and Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Commissioner Lee Sun-hi.
  After hearing a developmental progress report on the 8-year R&D project, the participants watched a live demonstration of the K21’s capabilities and viewed an exhibition of core parts developed during the project. The K21 prototypes demonstrated superb maneuverability, including the ability to rotate 360 degrees while standing in place. The test-firing of their 40mm cannon and 7.62mm coaxial machine gun, and the launching of its practice-round missiles drew applause from the spectators.
  The K21 is a new version of the K200 armored vehicle, used mainly to transport troops. Unlike the K200, the K21 is designed for an infantry fighting role. As such, it is armed with a 40mm cannon and antitank guided missiles, and has the firepower to destroy enemy helicopters, tanks and armored vehicles. Advanced laser and heat sensors warn of imminent attack, maximizing the survivability of the crew.
  It can access the C4I ground tactics system, using digital communication and GPS systems to share battlefield information with other friendly IFVs. Officials expect the K21 to greatly augment the fighting capability of the Republic of Korea (ROK) military. It will also allow ROK forces to adapt to the battle field environments of the future.
  The W91 billion (about US$97 million) K21 R&D project was begun in 1999. Three prototypes were produced in 2005, and they recently passed extensive operative and test evaluations by ADD.
  The K21 has been developed exclusively with domestic technology. It has been proven superior to similar IFVs manufactured in other countries, and officials are confident that it will become a highly successful export product.