Ahn Gyu-back visits the Agency for Defense Development.

Emphasizes creative thinking and a spirit of challenge as key drivers of future defense capabilities.

Awards commendations to contributors to the Cheongung-II R&D program.

Visits a defense firm to inspect supply chain stabilization efforts.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back visits the Agency for Defense Development and holds a meeting with weapons systems researchers on April 10.

On April 10, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu‑back told researchers at the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) that the Ministry would lower unnecessary institutional barriers and ensure stable research conditions, allowing them to conduct the research they wish. Minister Ahn made the remarks when he met with researchers at the ADD, saying, “The creative ideas and frontier spirit of young researchers are the core driving force of future defense capabilities.”

Minister Ahn emphasized, “Korea’s weapons‑system technologies, which are attracting worldwide attention, are the result of the longstanding efforts and dedication of ADD researchers, and the future of independent defense begins in the hands of each of our researchers.” He encouraged the labor and efforts of the researchers, saying that South Korea is now writing a new chapter in which K‑weapons systems are spreading to every corner of the world, from the Army’s K9 self‑propelled artillery and the Air Force’s KF‑21 fighters to the Navy’s frigates and submarines.

Minister Ahn encouraged free and open‑minded communication with researchers, saying he had come to hear their views at the forefront of defense science and technology on what was needed for Korea to move beyond being a fast follower and become a first mover.

Researchers outlined ways for Korea to advance closer to the level of advanced countries in technology and shared their experiences and challenges in the research and development process, emphasizing the need for greater policy support from the government.

Researcher Kim Hyo‑chang said, “I am deeply moved and proud to see our Korean weapons systems being recognized. Based on our achievements to date, we at ADD should pursue more diverse research and development activities, and for this, the government’s more active policy support is essential.”

Minister Ahn tours the LIG Defense & Aerospace (D&A) Daejeon House.

Minister Ahn responded, “Direction is more important than speed. If the direction is set correctly, we will provide the utmost support. We will foster an environment that attracts outstanding talent and look into ways to address vulnerabilities in the recruitment process.”

Minister Ahn also presented letters of commendation to contributors in R&D. Researcher Kang Gyeong‑tae, who received the minister’s letter of commendation for his contribution to the development of the medium-range surface-to-air missile (M-SAM) Cheongung-II, expressed his determination, saying, “I am greatly encouraged by the minister’s recognition and support. I will dedicate myself to developing world‑leading defense science and technology with a bold frontier spirit.”

Minister Ahn then visited the LIG Defense & Aerospace (D&A) Daejeon House to inspect the defense supply chain amid conflicts in the Middle East. After receiving a briefing from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and LIG D&A on the impact of the war on the weapons‑systems supply chain, Minister Ahn said, “The defense industry is the cornerstone and core growth engine of national security. As uncertainty lingers amid the war in the Middle East, I urge you not to slacken your efforts and to pay close attention to every minute detail in the supply chain.”

He discussed ways to stabilize the defense supply chain through meetings with defense companies and listened to their challenges. Minister Ahn stated, “Amid growing uncertainty over global oil prices and global supply chains, the government, enterprises, and related institutions must share the current situation and seek solutions together.”

After inspecting the core weapons‑systems production line, he instructed, “The Defense Acquisition Program Administration needs to continuously listen to on‑site difficulties and address them promptly.” Furthermore, he added, “The government will provide pan‑governmental support to ensure that the defense supply chain is maintained in a stable manner.”

 By Byeong-No, Yun <trylover@dema.mil.kr >

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