Republic of Korea Army
South Korea's land force, facing North Korea across the Demilitarised Zone.
South Korea’s land force faces North Korea across the Demilitarised Zone. On 15 September, it received approval for a reconnaissance-drone programme to replace the fixed-wing RQ-102K by 2036.
Last refreshed: 1 October 2026 · Appears in 1 active topic
What will South Korea's army fly when its fixed-wing drones retire?
Timeline for Republic of Korea Army
DAPA approves VTOL drone for Korean army
Drones: Industry & DefenceBackground
The Republic of Korea Army is South Korea's land force. Its enduring role is territorial defence on the Korean Peninsula, with the Demilitarised Zone and the North Korean border at the centre of that mission. Its identity rests on the readiness of land formations rather than on any one weapon system.
Persistent reconnaissance matters to that role because divisions need a clear view of activity beyond their positions. On 15 September 2026, South Korea approved a programme to replace the Army's fixed-wing RQ-102K with a vertically launched reconnaissance drone, with development scheduled from 2027 to 2036. The programme illustrates a long-term requirement, but it does not alter the Army's core purpose as the country's land-defence force.
What new drone is South Korea's army getting?
How is South Korea's army protecting its tanks from drones?
When will South Korea's army get its new reconnaissance drone?
