LIG Nex1
- Company typePublic
- Founded1976
- HeadquartersYongin, South Korea
- Headcount1,001–5,000
- GTM typeB2B
- OfferingHardware or Manufacturing
What LIG Nex1 does
LIG Defense & Aerospace (formerly LIG Nex1) is a South Korean publicly traded defense prime founded in 1976 and headquartered in Pangyo/Yongin, operating across eight business domains: guided weapons, maritime systems, ISR, command/control/communications/cyber, avionics and drones, electronic warfare, unmanned/future warfare, and MRO services. Its flagship product is the Cheongung-II (KM-SAM) medium-range surface-to-air missile system, developed jointly with Hanwha Systems and combat-validated in early 2026 by the UAE during Iranian missile and drone attacks with a 96.7% interception rate (161 of 174 ballistic missiles and 645 of 689 drones). The portfolio spans precision-guided munitions, anti-ship cruise missiles (L-MSM, L-MCM, SASM), the L-MDM drone-launched missile (integrated on Shield AI's V-BAT), the Haegung naval defense missile (exported to Malaysia for $94M), the Sea Sword-X unmanned surface vessel, the KF-21 EW suite, and the KRW 1.56 trillion Electronic Warfare Aircraft program (Bombardier Global 6500-based, deployment 2034).
The company's revenue model centers on direct government-to-government defense procurement, primarily through South Korea's DAPA/ADD for domestic programs and bilateral defense agreements for exports. It sells combat-proven missile defense systems at a structural cost advantage (Cheongung-II interceptors at ~US$1M vs. ~US$4M for U.S. Patriot), generating one-time license revenue on platform sales plus recurring MRO, consumables, and technology licensing/co-development streams. Customers include the UAE (US$3.5B Cheongung-II deal in 2022 plus follow-ons), Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Malaysia, Morocco, Thailand (with HD Hyundai), and the Republic of Korea Armed Forces. Multi-region manufacturing and MRO hubs are being established in Abu Dhabi (Tawazun Council) and planned for Europe (Rheinmetall JV), while the Ghost Robotics acquisition (60% stake, $240M, July 2024) provides a U.S. manufacturing and market access channel.
Vision 2030 targets 10 trillion KRW in sales (vs. ~KRW 3 trillion in 2025), supported by a KRW 5 trillion capital injection from South Korea's National Growth Fund in June 2026 — the largest single raise in company history — funding production infrastructure expansion in Gimcheon and Gumi. The company rebranded from LIG Nex1 to LIG Defense & Aerospace in March 2026, signaling a strategic pivot from Korean-domestic-focused missile house to globally integrated defense and aerospace prime.
LIG Nex1 firmographics
Firmographics- Name
- LIG Nex1
- Legal name
- LIG Defense&Aerospace
- Website
- https://lignex1.com
- Company type
- Public
- Founded year
- 1976
- Operating status
- Operating
- Headcount range
- 1,001–5,000 employees
- Ownership category
- akta.pro rank
LIG Nex1 industry classification
Industry- Product category
- Defense & Aerospace Manufacturing
- NAICS
- Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing (336414)
- SIC
- Guided Missiles & Space Vehicles & Parts (3760)
- akta.pro primary industry
- Air Defense Missiles & Interceptors (IMABAHAD)
- akta.pro secondary industries
- Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Electronics for Weapons (IMABAGAH), Naval C4ISR, Communications & Electronic Warfare (IMABAKAE), Military Weapons Integration & Stores Management (IMABAMAG), Tactical & Strategic Missile Systems (IMABAHAB), Military Space Systems (Defense Spacecraft) (IMABACAC)
Keywords
Where LIG Nex1 is headquartered
LocationHeadquarters
- HQ city
- Yongin
- HQ country
- South Korea
- HQ region
- Asia
Offices3 records
Markets served
LIG Nex1 business model
Business model- GTM type
- B2B
- Offering type
- Hardware or Manufacturing
- Cost components
- Personnel, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Infrastructure, Marketing or Sales
Revenue model
- Defense Equipment Sales (Guided Weapons, Air Defense, Naval Systems): Direct government procurement of defense systems including Cheongung-II missile defense systems, anti-ship missiles, naval combat systems, and electronic warfare platforms. Revenue recognized upon delivery of major defense platforms. Cheongung-II export contracts include UAE ($3.5B deal in 2022), Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Malaysia ($94M Haegung export).
- MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul): Ongoing maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for exported defense systems. UAE partnership with Tawazun Council includes establishment of local MRO facilities. South Korea's Defense Ministry streamlined export rules for repair parts, enabling faster follow-on maintenance revenue.
- Technology Licensing and Co-development: Licensing of proprietary defense technologies through strategic partnerships with international defense primes. Includes co-development revenue from programs like EW aircraft with Korean Air, and satellite programs with L3Harris.
- Satellite Systems and Space Programs: Space systems including geostationary weather satellite development (GK5) and satellite subsystems. First private-led satellite program in Korea, managed by LIG Nex1.
Pricing tiers
| Model | Billing | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Unit Pricing | Multi-year contract | Cheongung-II interceptor missiles — per unit |
| Unit Pricing | Multi-year contract | Haegung surface-to-air missile system export to Malaysia |
Go-to-market motion4 records
Distribution channels4 records
Marketing channels5 records
LIG Nex1 product offering
Product offeringCore offering
LIG Nex1 designs, develops, manufactures, and exports precision-guided weapons, surface-to-air missile defense systems, anti-ship missiles, electronic warfare platforms, unmanned surface vessels, naval combat systems, and satellite systems for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces and international defense customers. The company operates across eight business divisions covering guided munitions, maritime systems, ISR, C4I, avionics & drones, electronic warfare, unmanned & future warfare, and military maintenance/repair/overhaul (MRO) services.
Product overview
LIG Defense & Aerospace (formerly LIG Nex1) operates as a comprehensive defense and aerospace systems integrator offering a portfolio of guided weapons, maritime systems, surveillance and reconnaissance, command control communications, avionics and drones, electronic warfare, and unmanned and future warfare solutions. The product portfolio centers on the Cheongung-II surface-to-air missile system as the flagship product, complemented by anti-ship cruise missiles (L-MSM, L-MCM, SASM), Haegung maritime defense missile, L-MDM drone-launched missile, KF-21 electronic warfare suite, Sea Sword-X unmanned surface vessel, and Ghost Robotics quadrupedal robots (Vision 60, Spirit 40). The company also leads the W1.9 trillion electronic warfare aircraft program for Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration and the Cheollian 5 geostationary weather satellite program. Business divisions span guided munitions, maritime systems, ISR, C4I/cyber, avionics/drones, electronic warfare, unmanned systems, and MRO services.
Differentiator
Problem solved
Functional benefit
Brands
- Cheongung-II (천궁-II): Surface-to-air missile defense system with 96%+ interception rate, combat-proven in Middle East conflicts
- Haegung
- L-MDM (LIG Multi-purpose Drone-launched Missile)
- Sea Sword-X
- GK5 (Cheollian 5)
- KALCM (Korean Air-Launched Cruise Missile)
- L-MSM, L-MCM, SASM
Products and services
- Cheongung-II Surface-to-Air Missile System (KM-SAM)
- Haegung Surface-to-Air Missile System
- L-MDM Drone-Launched Missile
- L-MSM / L-MCM / SASM Anti-ship Cruise Missiles
- Electronic Warfare Aircraft Block-I
- Sea Sword-X Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV)
- Micro Satellite System
- Military Satellite Communication System-II
- KF-21 Electronic Warfare Suite
- KALCM (Korean Air-Launched Cruise Missile)
- SRAAM-II Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile
- Cheollian 5 (GK5) Geostationary Weather Satellite
- Ghost Robotics Vision 60 / Spirit 40 Quadruped Unmanned Ground Vehicles
- Military MRO (Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul) Services
Quantifiable outcome
- Cheongung-II achieved 96.7% intercept rate in combat, destroying 161 of 174 ballistic missiles and 645 of 689 drones detected in Iran-UAE conflict
- +4 more outcomes
Companies that use LIG Nex1
Customer profileNamed customers7 records
Segments3 records
Ideal customer profiles2 records
LIG Nex1 technology and API
TechnologyTechnology focussed Yes
API detail
- Has API
- No
- API docs
- API detail
Core technology
AI maturity
App detail
Integration2 records
AI capability11 records
Feature7 records
LIG Nex1 partnerships and signals
Strategic signalPartnerships
13 partnerships are on record, tiered flagship, core and minor.
- RheinmetallflagshipLIG D&A announced partnership with German defense firm Rheinmetall to cooperate in air defense systems. LIG D&A stock jumped 18.82% following the announcement. The partnership combines LIG D&A's Cheongung-II air defense system with Rheinmetall's air defense portfolio to target European and NATO markets.
- NearthlabcoreMOU signed June 2 to establish business cooperation framework in interceptor drone sector. Partnership combines LIG D&A's integrated air defense system capabilities with Nearthlab's AI software and autonomous flight-based interceptor drone technologies to develop combat-ready counter-drone solutions. Includes rapid pilot projects for close-range counter-drone hard-kill defense, interceptor drone variants development, and domestic and overseas exports.
- Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement (UAE)flagshipMOU signed at 'Make it in the Emirates 2026' event to establish a global defence manufacturing hub in Abu Dhabi. Agreement covers cooperation in R&D, manufacturing, maintenance, repair, overhaul, and supply chain integration. UAE entity will be locally incorporated, supporting UAE's defense industry localization goals.
- HJ Heavy IndustriescoreLIG Nex1 partnered with HJ Heavy Industries as part of South Korean consortium with HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to develop combat USV systems for Republic of Korea Navy under Agency for Defence Development program. LIG Nex1 developing autonomous mission systems and weapon operation controls; HJ Heavy Industries providing hull and naval platform expertise.
- Palantir TechnologiesflagshipMOU signed at Palantir headquarters in Palo Alto, California to develop AI-enhanced integrated air defense and unmanned system solutions for the UAE. Combines LIG Nex1's Cheongung II surface-to-air missile system (96% interception success rate in Middle East conflicts) with Palantir's AI and data management technologies. Partnership aims to enhance LIG Nex1's software capabilities and establish global defense market foothold through UAE.
- Ghost Robotics (US IPO preparation)minorLIG Nex1 reaffirmed that the US IPO of its robotics subsidiary Ghost Robotics remains on track for 2029 as originally agreed under the investment agreement. Company dismissed market speculation about delays, despite near-term financial pressure on the subsidiary (estimated KRW 16B revenue vs KRW 42B operating losses in 2025, partly due to US federal government shutdown disruptions).
- Honeywell InternationalcoreMOU signed in February to explore collaboration on unmanned aerial vehicle development, including Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAV) and Collaborative Combat Aircraft, as well as space, electromagnetic defense, and cybersecurity applications. Non-exclusive framework combining Honeywell's unmanned technologies and resilient navigation expertise with LIG Nex1's cross-domain unmanned platform experience and advanced precision electronic systems.
- Shield AIcoreShield AI announced integration of LIG Nex1's L-MDM (LIG Multi-purpose Drone-launched Missile) into its V-BAT vertical takeoff and landing drone, transforming the ISR platform into a precision strike asset. L-MDM is an air-to-ground laser-guided weapon for easy integration with existing surveillance and reconnaissance drone platforms. Previously signed MOU at MADEX 2025; contract commemoration event held at UMEX 2026.
- L3Harris TechnologiescoreL3Harris Technologies selected by LIG Nex1 to provide the imaging payload for Korea's GEO-KOMPSAT-5 geostationary weather satellite. L3Harris supplying its new 18-channel meteorological imager with two channels for improved water vapor measurement. LIG Nex1 managing domestic quality control, integration, and system verification for the satellite program.
- Rotron AerospaceminorCollaboration agreement signed between UK propulsion specialist Rotron Aerospace and LIG Nex1 to jointly develop and export unmanned air systems, focusing on the Medium UAV Common Platform. Combines Rotron's propulsion expertise with LIG Nex1's capabilities in unmanned air systems for both development and export purposes.
- HD Hyundai Heavy IndustriescoreSouth Korean consortium (LIG Nex1, HJ Heavy Industries, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries) signed agreement with Agency for Defence Development to develop combat USV systems for Republic of Korea Navy. LIG Nex1 developing core technologies for integrated control system, weapon operation and launch-control system, and autonomous mission system for combat USV under KRW 49B government-funded program through 2030.
- Airbus Defence and SpacecoreMOU signed at ADEX 2025 to expand strategic partnership and cooperation in advanced defense and aerospace technologies. Collaboration to be broadened to include integrated air defense systems, digital defense solutions, and support for Korea's national space programs, building on existing joint projects.
- Ghost Robotics (Acquisition – 60% controlling stake)coreLIG Nex1 acquired 60% controlling stake in Philadelphia-based quadrupedal robot developer Ghost Robotics for $240 million, valuing the company at $400 million. Companies plan to combine expertise to develop autonomous robotic solutions for industrial and defense markets. Ghost Robotics gains access to LIG Nex1's defense technologies and manufacturing facilities to scale production of Vision 60 and Spirit 40 robot dogs. Joint research center planned in Washington D.C.
Scale indicators9 records
Recent moves7 records
Expansion highlights7 records
LIG Nex1 competitors and assessment
Company assessmentDirect peers
- MBDA: European-guided weapons consortium (Airbus, Leonardo, BAE Systems) that is a direct head-to-head competitor in the medium-range SAM and anti-ship missile export markets. Comparable in product portfolio across air defense, anti-ship, and guided munitions and as a primary competitor for NATO/European sales.
- HD Hyundai Heavy Industries: Consortium partner for the Royal Thai Navy frigate program and a co-developer of combat USV systems for the ROK Navy. Comparable as a Korean naval and shipbuilding prime with overlapping combat system integration mandates.
- Rafael Advanced Defense Systems: Israeli defense company behind Iron Dome, David's Sling, and the Spike missile family — a direct peer in mid-tier combat-proven air defense and anti-ship missiles. Highly comparable as a smaller-than-US-prime integrator that has built an export franchise out of combat-proven systems, including in the Middle East and Europe.
- Hanwha Systems: Co-developer of the Cheongung-II radar and combat management system, making it a direct technology peer in integrated air defense. Comparable as a Korean defense electronics house focused on surveillance radar, electronic warfare, and C4I systems for the same customer base.
- Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI): Manufacturer of the KF-21 Boramae fighter — the platform that LIG D&A's SRAAM-II, KALCM, and EW suite are designed to integrate with. A direct peer across Korea's combat aircraft, unmanned, and aerospace ecosystem and a fellow member of the Korean 'Big 4' defense primes.
- Hanwha Aerospace: Co-developer of the Cheongung-II (KM-SAM) surface-to-air missile system and a fellow member of Korea's 'Big 4' defense primes (combined ~$37B projected 2026 revenue). Directly comparable as a Korean guided-weapons and air defense systems integrator targeting the same export customers in the Middle East.
- Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace: Norwegian defense and aerospace company active in air defense (NASAMS), naval strike missiles, and unmanned systems. Comparable as a non-US Western mid-tier defense prime with a similar export-led, combat-validated growth profile in Europe and NATO markets.
Broad incumbents
- Lockheed Martin: Producer of the Patriot PAC-3 system, the principal premium-priced incumbent against which Cheongung-II is positioned. Comparable as a broad US defense prime with overlapping surface-to-air missiles, precision-guided weapons, and integrated air defense offerings.
- RTX (Raytheon): Co-producer of Patriot and a broad US defense prime in missiles, EW, and integrated air defense. Comparable as a global incumbent competing for the same Middle East and Eastern European air defense customers, with deep political and offset relationships.
- Rheinmetall: Germany's largest defense prime and LIG D&A's June 2026 strategic partner for European and NATO air defense market entry. Comparable as a broad incumbent offering overlapping air defense capabilities (including Skynex and Oerlikon) but as part of a much wider land, air, and ammunition portfolio.
Market position
Strengths5 records
Weaknesses5 records
Competitive moat6 records
Key risks6 records
Key highlights7 records
Customer concentration
LIG Nex1 social profiles
Digital presenceLIG Nex1 financial estimates
Financial estimateRevenue estimate
Valuation estimate
LIG Nex1 leadership team
Management profileNumber of profiles
Profiles1 record
LIG Nex1 subsidiaries and ownership
Company hierarchySubsidiaries6 records
LIG Nex1 funding detail
Funding detailFunding overview
Funding rounds2 records
Investors7 records
Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
LIG Nex1 M&A and investment
M&A and investmentM&A1 record
Investments5 records
M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →
Frequently asked questions about LIG Nex1
What does LIG Nex1 do?
LIG Nex1 designs, develops, manufactures, and exports precision-guided weapons, surface-to-air missile defense systems, anti-ship missiles, electronic warfare platforms, unmanned surface vessels, naval combat systems, and satellite systems for the Republic of Korea Armed Forces and international defense customers. The company operates across eight business divisions covering guided munitions, maritime systems, ISR, C4I, avionics & drones, electronic warfare, unmanned & future warfare, and military maintenance/repair/overhaul (MRO) services.
Is LIG Nex1 a public or private company?
LIG Nex1 is a public company. It is classified as public and is currently operating.
When was LIG Nex1 founded?
LIG Nex1 was founded in 1976. It employs 1,001 to 5,000 people.
Where is LIG Nex1 based?
LIG Nex1 is headquartered in Yongin, South Korea, in the Asia region.
How does LIG Nex1 make money?
Four revenue lines are on record. Defense Equipment Sales (Guided Weapons, Air Defense, Naval Systems) is the primary driver. The others are MRO (Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul), technology Licensing and Co-development and satellite Systems and Space Programs.
Who are LIG Nex1's main competitors?
Direct peers on record are MBDA, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Hanwha Systems, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), Hanwha Aerospace and Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. Broad incumbents are Lockheed Martin, RTX (Raytheon) and Rheinmetall.
Does LIG Nex1 have an API?
No public API is recorded for LIG Nex1.
What industry is LIG Nex1 in?
LIG Nex1's product category is Defense & Aerospace Manufacturing. Its primary akta.pro industry code is IMABAHAD, Air Defense Missiles & Interceptors, with a secondary code of IMABAGAH, Guidance, Navigation & Control (GNC) Electronics for Weapons. Its NAICS code is 336414 and its SIC code is 3760.