The U.S. military and security news site "Defense Post" reported that Iraq is seeking to acquire the "M-SAM 2" missile and air defense system from South Korea, as part of a deal that could be valued at around $2.56 billion. According to a military report published by the site, Iraq expressed its desire to possess eight systems of these air defense batteries, also known as "Cheongung-2," in an "urgent" request. The report noted that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are also moving to acquire the same South Korean system.
The report highlighted that Iraq's move came more than a month after it announced its efforts to explore new air defense systems, with South Korea potentially being one of its preferred sources. It also mentioned that the Iraqi action followed a meeting between Iraqi Defense Minister Thabet Al-Abbasi and his South Korean counterpart at the beginning of 2024 to discuss military cooperation issues. Additionally, the report indicated that Baghdad revealed in March that it had sent several military and technical delegations to various countries abroad to discuss available options for enhancing its air defense systems, including anti-aircraft weapons.
The U.S. report stated that the "M-SAM-2," known in South Korea as "Cheongung-2," provides effective defense against enemy aircraft, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, utilizing "hit-to-kill" technology where the system intercepts incoming threats by colliding with them directly. Moreover, this air defense system features sophisticated radar for simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple targets. The report explained that the "M-SAM-2" has an operational range of up to 40 kilometers and can intercept missiles at altitudes of up to 15 kilometers.
The report pointed out that South Korea is currently developing new versions of the "M-SAM-3" and "L-SAM-2" systems, which will offer more advanced capabilities. According to the report, the "M-SAM-2" has emerged as one of the most demanded surface-to-air missile systems in the Middle East, noting that, alongside Iraq, Saudi Arabia has submitted a request to acquire "M-SAM-2" batteries valued at $3.2 billion, while negotiations are currently ongoing with the UAE for the acquisition of the defense system valued at $3.5 billion. The report emphasized that these multi-billion dollar contracts reinforce the position of the "M-SAM-2" as one of the most successful South Korean military products, alongside the "K-9" artillery system.
