BUSAN, South Korea – LIG Nex1 (079550), a leading South Korean defense company, announced on May 27, 2025, that it will be globally unveiling its futuristic unmanned surface vessel (USV) concept model, 'Haegum-X,' at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX) 2025. The exhibition, running from May 28 to 31 at BEXCO in Busan, will serve as the stage for LIG Nex1 to showcase its vision for future unmanned naval fleets.

A Glimpse into the Future of Naval Warfare: Haegum-X

LIG Nex1 has secured the largest booth among single companies at MADEX 2025, spanning 280 square meters. Notably, the company is co-operating its exhibition space with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (329180), featuring a booth designed to resemble a next-generation stealth warship. This collaboration highlights the growing synergy between leading defense manufacturers in South Korea.

The focal point of LIG Nex1's exhibit will be the Haegum-X, presented as the cornerstone of a future unmanned fleet. The Haegum-X boasts a stealthy design engineered to minimize detection, making it a formidable asset in modern naval operations. Equipped with a multifunction radar (MFR), it ensures powerful and three-dimensional search capabilities, crucial for comprehensive situational awareness.

Beyond its stealth and detection prowess, the Haegum-X is heavily armed with a diverse array of LIG Nex1's advanced weaponry. This includes a 20mm remote control weapon system (RCWS), the 2.75-inch guided rocket 'Bigung,' the lightweight torpedo 'Chungsang-eo,' and attack drones. The USV can be controlled through various methods, leveraging satellites and communication drones, enabling flexible and robust operational command.

LIG Nex1 emphasizes that the Haegum-X is designed for effective swarm operations and features a standardized platform allowing for the easy attachment and detachment of mission-specific equipment. This modularity ensures a flexible and powerful response to various operational environments, including anti-ship warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-drone warfare. This adaptability is critical for addressing the evolving threats in maritime security.

Showcasing Unmanned Fleet Capabilities and Innovation

Alongside the Haegum-X, LIG Nex1 will also be showcasing the reconnaissance USV set to be the first of its kind to be deployed by the Republic of Korea Navy. In a display of innovative manufacturing, a 3D-printed model of a kamikaze USV will also be exhibited, underscoring the company's commitment to realizing a powerful unmanned fleet.

An LIG Nex1 official stated, "We are taking on many challenges for technological innovation. Attempting to manufacture the hull of a kamikaze USV using 3D printing is one such endeavor." The official further explained, "In the future, utilizing 3D printing, which allows for cost reduction, mass production, and rapid manufacturing, can significantly contribute to strengthening the Navy's unmanned forces." This highlights the potential for additive manufacturing to revolutionize defense production, offering quicker turnaround times and more efficient resource utilization.

Furthermore, LIG Nex1's exhibit will include a surface ship integrated mast combining multifunction active electronically scanned array (AESA) MFR and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities, along with a combat system that integrates sensors and armaments. Other key displays will feature the ship-to-air guided missile-II, the close-in weapon system (CIWS-II), and an anti-drone integrated jammer, all indicative of LIG Nex1's broad spectrum of advanced defense solutions.

An LIG Nex1 representative affirmed the company's dedication: "With the capabilities showcased at MADEX 2025, we will support the Republic of Korea Navy's pursuit of a manned-unmanned complex system, 'Navy Sea GHOST,' and do our best to elevate the name of maritime powerhouse Korea in the global maritime defense market." This statement underscores LIG Nex1's alignment with the ROK Navy's strategic vision for future naval operations, which increasingly emphasizes the integration of unmanned systems. The 'Navy Sea GHOST' concept aims to leverage advanced technologies to create a highly effective and adaptable naval force.

 
LIG Nex1's Commitment to Social Responsibility

In addition to its technological advancements, LIG Nex1 continues to demonstrate its commitment to social responsibility. On May 26, ahead of the 'Month of Patriots and Veterans' in June, LIG Nex1 employees, including CEO Shin Ik-hyun and new recruits, visited the Seoul National Cemetery to pay tribute to fallen heroes and ancestors and to maintain their gravesites. This involved activities such as replacing flowers, placing Korean flags, and cleaning gravestones.

LIG Nex1 was the first domestic defense company to establish a sisterhood relationship with the 30th and 1st gravesites at the Seoul National Cemetery in 2010. Since then, the company has regularly engaged in volunteer activities. Furthermore, LIG Nex1 has consistently held its annual inauguration ceremony at the National Cemetery and conducted memorial services, fostering a special connection to the site. This ongoing commitment to national remembrance and community service reflects the company's broader corporate values beyond its core defense business.