Page 4 - ADT SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2021 Online Magazine

28 th
YEAR
CREDIT
LINE
Editor
Vittorio Rossi Prudente
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Deputy Editor
Jay Menon
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Technology Editor
Atul Chandra
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Managing Editor
Arun Sivasankaran
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Jakarta Bureau
Yulian Ardiansyah
Correspondent
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Nassim Ait Idir
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Miamica Khonglah
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4 | September / October 2021
EDITOR’S NOTE
A True Powerhouse
The submarine-launched ballistic missile test by South Korea last
month, just hours after North Korea fired two ballistic missiles of its
own, is a sign that while upgrading its missile defence capabilities is
still South Korea’s prime goal, it is also beefing up offensive
capabilities as part of its overall plan to deter North Korea’s
aggression.
The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) has recently inducted some
of the most advanced warfighting technologies, thus adding more
teeth to what is already one of the most powerful air forces in the
region. The roll out of the first KF-21 prototype in April by Korean
Aerospace Industries (KAI) and the country’s plans to develop a range
of military UAVs have generated plenty of excitement in military circles.
The development of the fighter jet will especially be keenly watched,
not only by South Korea and its project partner Indonesia but also by
countries that are looking for a less expensive alternative to the F-35.
The ever-looming presence of a dangerous and unpredictable
neighbor has spurred South Korea to accelerate the growth of its
indigenous defence industry. In 2020 alone, the country ranked sixth
among major arms exporters, up from 31st in 2000. With its domestic
defence firms making a major mark on the world stage, the country
looks set to further increase its arms exports during the decade and
reduce its dependance on weapons imported from the U.S. and other
countries.
ADEX 2021, one of the premier defence shows in the region, presents
the perfect stage for South Korea to exhibit not only its military
prowess but also the capabilities of domestic defence contractors.
There is added significance to the upcoming edition as it is being held
at a time when the U.S. and South Korean militaries are preparing for
the transfer of wartime operational control authority, from the U.S. to
South Korea, in 2022. As the producer of the official ADEX 2021 Show
Daily, GBP Aerospace & Defence will bring to you all the action from
the biennial event. Visit gbp.com.sg to get the latest updates from
ADEX 2021 as well as from the world of defence, space, commercial
aviation and MRO.
Editor
Asian Defence Technology
Global Business Press Pte.Ltd.
ASIAN DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY
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