Hanwha Aerospace and Lockheed Martin UK unveiled a reconfigured Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) at Defence Vehicle Dynamics 2026. This first time configuration features a dual-role IFV and C-UAS turret, armed with a CTA International 40mm cannon. The digitally-enabled turret system has been developed and integrated at Lockheed Martin UK’s Bedfordshire facility. The turret also features the inaugural integration of Lockheed Martin UK’s SkyKeeper Command and Control system within a turret system, enabled through the Generic Vehicle Architecture.
Using this digital framework, the system ensures that combat vehicles remain future-proof throughout their service life, allowing for seamless integration of new technologies and capabilities, and the ability to adapt rapidly to the evolving demands of modern warfare.
This model, a customised iteration of the tracked IFV selected by the Australian Army in 2023, demonstrates a mature, mission-ready solution tailored for NATO nations. By combining a proven hull with mature, proven turret technology, and a NATO qualified medium-calibre weapon system, Hanwha Aerospace and Lockheed Martin UK provides a highly adaptable solution designed to meet individual customer requirements, supporting the modernisation of future cavalry and reconnaissance capabilities.
“The vehicle on display at DVD demonstrates how quickly an in-service platform can be reconfigured to meet a new customer’s requirements,” said Byunggil Lee, Director of Armoured Vehicles at Hanwha Aerospace. “We selected the CTA International’s 40mm cannon because the range of ammunition available for this weapon provides the flexibility and the firepower that future operating environments will require. This assessment led us to partner with Lockheed Martin UK, and together we have integrated a British-built turret onto the Redback hull at pace. We believe this combination offers NATO customers a low-risk, in-service platform that can be tailored to their specific needs. In 2027, we plan to conduct live demonstrations in countries considering the introduction of next-generation IFVs, including Canada and Korea.”
“Decades of expertise in complex systems integration, and a proven pedigree in turret development, makes Lockheed Martin UK the partner of choice for Hanwha Aerospace’s IFV offering to the Canadian Army. This collaboration highlights the inherent versatility of our modular, platform-agnostic technology, which is designed to adapt to the rapidly evolving demands of modern warfare,” said Mark Langley, Head of Complex Systems at Lockheed Martin UK. “By integrating our British-built, digitally-enabled turret and SkyKeeper Command and Control system onto the Redback platform, we are providing customers with the option of a dual-role IFV and C-UAS capability, armed with a CTA International 40mm cannon.”
EDGE and Hanwha strengthen cooperation on air defence
EDGE Group and Hanwha have strengthened strategic cooperation on the development of an integrated air defence system. The two companies signed a Term Sheet at EDGE Group’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, with senior executives from both companies in attendance. The Term Sheet outlines the direction of cooperation related to the UAE’s integrated air defence requirements, including the South Korean Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (L-SAM) system, additional Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (M-SAM) capabilities, and the Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher System (MRLS).
The signing marks a step toward a long-term strategic partnership between the two companies, expanding cooperation beyond individual weapon systems to strengthen the UAE’s air defence capabilities and local defence industrial base.
Yang Ki-won, CEO of Hanwha Systems, said “We are pleased to take this important first step toward building a long-term strategic partnership with EDGE. By combining our technologies, capabilities and industrial strengths together, we aim to strengthen the UAE’s defence capabilities and identify new areas of cooperation.”
The two companies will continue discussions on the scope and structure of their cooperation. Subject to the necessary government approvals and applicable procedures, they will explore the potential establishment of a joint venture in the UAE, as well as detailed arrangements for local production and business operations. They will also explore technology cooperation, phased localisation and local production to expand the UAE’s defence industrial base and develop a sustainable local defence industry.
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, said “This cooperation goes beyond the acquisition of individual weapon systems, with a focus on strengthening the UAE’s sovereign air defence capabilities and local industrial base. EDGE will work with Hanwha to establish a sustainable framework for industrial cooperation.”
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