South Korea may sell the K30 Biho SPAAG to a country in active conflict for the first time, despite having refused Ukraine
Kyiv • UNN
South Korea is considering exporting K30 Biho systems to the UAE to counter Iranian drones. Previously, Seoul refused to provide weapons to Ukraine due to the state of war.
South Korea is considering the possibility of exporting the K30 Biho anti-aircraft gun-missile system to the United Arab Emirates, despite the fact that the country is effectively in a state of hostilities with Iran. This was reported by Defense Express, according to UNN.
Details
According to the publication, the UAE is interested in the K30 Biho due to the need to combat Iranian long-range drones of the "Shahed" type, which were actively used during the American operation "Epic Fury." Information has also appeared on social media that the systems could even be transferred from the South Korean army's inventory, although only about 167 such systems are currently in service there.
Double standards regarding Ukraine
Defense Express points out that Seoul has previously repeatedly refused to sell weapons to Ukraine, citing legislation that prohibits the export of arms to countries at war. At the same time, a potential contract with the UAE suggests that these restrictions may be applied selectively.
The K30 Biho has been in service since 1999 and is equipped with two 30mm automatic cannons and four KP-SAM missiles. The system has its own radar, a thermal imaging guidance system, and a digital fire control system. Previously, South Korea also refused to supply Ukraine with KM-SAM II air defense systems capable of intercepting ballistic missiles.