SM Vexel Signs 20 Billion KRW Defense Lithium Ampoule Battery Supply Contract

SM Group's manufacturing division affiliate SM Vexcel announced on the 21st that it has signed a supply contract worth 20 billion KRW with Korea Defense Industry for lithium ampoule batteries used in unguided munitions defense projects, valid until the end of 2025.

SM Vexel Lithium Ampoule Battery (Provided by SM Vexel)

From prototype development to domestic and international evaluations, and test launches conducted in the presence of government agencies such as the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and the Army, the product received excellent evaluations and completed development approval. This achievement came just five months after starting large-scale facility investments worth 8 billion KRW in March last year to establish production lines for defense lithium ampoule batteries.

The defense lithium ampoule battery is an ultra-small battery about 5mm in size, mounted on 230mm-class multiple rocket launcher system unguided rockets, serving as a key component in defense weapon systems that perform self-destruction functions for duds. It minimizes ammunition loss and prevents misfires, thereby preventing secondary damage that could occur to friendly forces or civilians.

Choi Se-hwan, CEO of SM Vexcel's Battery Business Division, stated, "The defense industry can be a stable future growth business," adding, "The defense industry is essential for maintaining international peace and social safety, and we will continue R&D investments for advanced defense technologies."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.