Reports are emerging online that the United Arab Emirates is interested in the South Korean K30 Biho self-propelled anti-aircraft gun and missile system. According to available information, South Korea is inclined to approve the export.
The interest in the K30 Biho appears to be driven by the need to counter iranian long-range drones including Shaheds which have become a serious threat to the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries during the American Operation Epic Fury.
Details of a possible contract are not yet known, though social media reports suggest the K30 Biho systems could be delivered to the UAE through transfer of units currently in service with the Republic of Korea’s armed forces. This option, however, appears unlikely given that South Korea operates only around 167 K30 Biho systems.
It is important to note that hostilities between the UAE and iran are still ongoing, with the two sides exchanging strikes on a regular basis and confrontation continuing in the Strait of Hormuz. None of this appears likely to prevent South Korea from signing a new contract and exporting the K30 Biho to the UAE.
South Korea had previously refused to sell weapons to Ukraine, citing domestic legislation prohibiting arms exports to countries at war. As this situation illustrates, however, that law appears to be applied selectively.
The K30 Biho entered service in 1999. Since then, attempts were made to sell it to India, though no contract was concluded. The K30 Biho is armed with two 30 mm autocannons and launchers for four KP-SAM man-portable missiles. The system also features its own radar and an electro-optical targeting station with thermal imaging, with a fully digitized fire control system.
It is worth recalling that alongside the potential K30 Biho export, reports have also emerged regarding possible exports of the KM-SAM II ballistic missile defense system to two Middle Eastern countries another system Ukraine was refused on the grounds of the ongoing war.
Cheongung II / KM-SAM II air defense system / Open source photo
South Korea is nonetheless reviewing its approach to military assistance to Ukraine and is currently considering financing the PURL program for the procurement of American weapons and equipment though limited to non-lethal items only.