Unlocking Defense Innovation: Hanwha Systems Partners with Top Universities for Semiconductor R&D
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Hanwha Systems is ramping up efforts to domesticate defense semiconductor technology in partnership with leading South Korean universities.
On March 5, Hanwha Systems held ceremonies to inaugurate defense and space semiconductor research and development (R&D) centers at Seoul National University’s Semiconductor Joint Research Center and Sungkyunkwan University’s College of Information and Communication.
The collaboration between Hanwha Systems and Seoul National University aims to develop high-frequency semiconductor design technology for communications by 2031. This technology is expected to be crucial for next-generation military communications, enabling ultra-fast, low-latency, and high-performance networks for use in communication satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, and mobile terminals.
Previously, in December 2025, Hanwha Systems secured a contract to develop transceiver space semiconductors. These components are vital for military low-Earth-orbit satellite communications, ensuring reliable transmission and reception between ground and space in harsh environments.
The partnership with Sungkyunkwan University focuses on developing domestic high-power, high-efficiency, and wideband semiconductors for radar applications. These semiconductors will be integrated into radar antennas for various weapons systems, including fighter jets, surface-to-air missiles, and observation satellites, handling critical functions such as target detection and tracking. The technology is slated for implementation in systems like the Cheongung-II, L-SAM multifunction radar, AESA fighter radars, and SAR observation satellites.
Hanwha Systems plans to establish joint research infrastructure progressively and pursue early-stage research, technology acquisition, and component commercialization. The company also aims to expand industry-academia exchanges and recruit top talent as part of its long-term strategy.
Defense semiconductors are critical components in advanced weapon systems and require exceptional reliability and stability. Through this collaboration, Hanwha Systems hopes to localize defense-industry semiconductors and build a robust technological foundation.
A Hanwha Systems spokesperson stated, “This partnership establishes a stable domestic foundation for core defense semiconductor technologies. We are committed to strengthening the defense industry’s competitiveness through ongoing R&D and talent development.”
Photo: Hanwha Systems
(The CEN News) Seo Hye-bin press@mhns.co.kr
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