Hyundai Wia to defend against illegal drones

South Korea's second-largest automotive parts supplier Hyundai Wia Corp. plans to develop an anti-drone system (ADS) technology tailored to the unique characteristics of nuclear power plants in South Korea. 

According to Hyundai Wia, the company signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with KEPCO E&C, KEPCO KDN, and Toris Square, focusing on the "Development and Commercialization of Integrated Solutions for Responding to Illegal Intrusions into National Infrastructure" on Wednesday. 

The agreement outlines joint efforts in the development and commercialization of "anti-drone integrated solutions," operation and maintenance of anti-drone systems, and export cooperation.

In response to illegal drones, Hyundai Wia plans to develop a fixed-type ADS to securely protect nuclear power plants. The company specifically aims to enhance its domestically pioneered hard-kill ADS to suit nuclear power plant scenarios.

The hard-kill ADS employs a remote-controlled weapon system (RCWS) capable of launching 40 mm airburst grenades and streamer grenades to directly intercept drones.

Hyundai Wia also plans to incorporate a soft-kill method, disrupting drones by jamming signals. The company is set to engage in the development of drone detection and tracking technologies using radar and optical devices.

Write to Sungsu Bae at baebae@hankyung.com