HYUNDAI WIA has unveiled its latest mobility-based artillery systems at the largest defense exhibition in the Middle East and Africa.

On February 17, HYUNDAI WIA announced its participation in IDEX 2025 (International Defense Exhibition & Conference 2025), held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in the UAE. IDEX is the largest international defense exhibition in the Middle East and Africa that runs from February 17 to 21 (local time), and this marks HYUNDAI WIA’s first participation in the event.

HYUNDAI WIA unveiled a wide range of mobility-based artillery systems as mock-up models at the exhibition. These systems are designed to reduce weight and enhance mobility by being mounted on tactical vehicles. One of the key highlights of the exhibition is the lightweight 105mm self-propelled howitzer, integrated into a small tactical vehicle. This system was developed as part of the Rapid Research and Development Project by the Defense Rapid Acquisition Technology Research Institute. It features an extended maximum firing range of approximately 14 kilometers, surpassing conventional self-propelled howitzers. Its lighter weight allows for air transport using large tactical helicopters, increasing operational flexibility. The system is currently undergoing military trial operations and will be evaluated for combat applicability by June, with plans for full deployment thereafter.

At the exhibition, HYUNDAI WIA also introduced a vehicle-mounted 81mm mortar system as a mock-up model. Mortars are key fire support in infantry operations. HYUNDAI WIA has adapted the traditional 81mm mortar and integrated it into a small tactical vehicle for higher mobility performance and rapid deployment. The company has significantly reduced setup time from five minutes to just 10 seconds and streamlined the operating crew from five personnel to three. Additionally, in scenarios where vehicles are unable to operate, the artillery can be detached and operated as a conventional 81mm mortar.

HYUNDAI WIA also showcased next-generation tactical vehicle-based weapon systems. One of the highlights was the vehicle-mounted Anti-Drone System (ADS), which utilizes radar and optical sensors to detect, identify, and counter drone threats. The system is designed to be integrated into both small and medium-sized tactical vehicles, ensuring flexible deployment in various combat scenarios. The company also displayed a Remote Control Weapon System (RCWS), which allows operators to engage targets within the vehicle. Both the physical models and promotional videos of these systems were presented at the exhibition.

With this opportunity to participate in IDEX 2025, HYUNDAI WIA aims to expand its artillery system exports to the Middle East and Africa. "We are excited to showcase HYUNDAI WIA’s advanced technologies in the Middle East and Africa for the first time at IDEX 2025. We will continue to develop mobility-based artillery systems to become a global leader with strong competitiveness in artillery systems, both in Korea and internationally," said an official from HYUNDAI WIA.