Hanwha Unveils Next-Generation Unmanned Combat Systems in Romania

Participation in BSDA 2026
Showcasing UGVs, AI Satellite Analysis, and Mine Disposal Systems

Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems announced on May 12 that they will participate in 'BSDA (Black Sea Defense & Aerospace) 2026' held in Romania, where they will showcase next-generation unmanned integrated solutions.

BSDA 2026 Hanwha Booth Draft. Hanwha

BSDA 2026 will be held in Bucharest, Romania from May 13 to May 15. As the largest defense exhibition in the Balkan region, it is expected to attract more than 550 companies from 36 countries and over 30,000 visitors. The two companies will operate an integrated booth covering 437 square meters.

As European countries expand the adoption of unmanned combat systems in response to changing security environments, Romania is also currently pursuing a project to introduce unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs). At this exhibition, Hanwha Aerospace will unveil its UGV lineup, including the multipurpose unmanned vehicle Arion-SMET, as well as GRUNT and THeMIS-K.

GRUNT is an upgraded version of the Arion-SMET, independently developed by Hanwha Aerospace. THeMIS-K is a tracked unmanned vehicle developed in collaboration with Estonia's Milrem Robotics. The two companies are also jointly developing a medium-sized tracked UGV that is larger than the current THeMIS-K.

On May 12, the day before the exhibition opens, Hanwha Aerospace conducted a 'UGV Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)' demonstration for Romanian military officials and others, utilizing GRUNT and THeMIS-K. The demonstration showcased the execution of complex missions such as reconnaissance and supply, as well as the concept of manned-unmanned collaborative operations.

In addition, the K9A1 self-propelled howitzer, Cheonmu multiple launch rocket system, long-range surface-to-air missile (L-SAM), and short-range air defense system (H-SHORAD) will also be on display.

Hanwha Systems will unveil an AI-based satellite image analysis solution. This solution can identify targets such as aircraft, vehicles, and trains, as well as estimate the scale of damage from disasters and catastrophes. The company explained that, when linked with weapon systems, it can enhance battlefield situational awareness and precision strike capabilities.

In addition, the next-generation mine disposal vehicle, featuring AI-based Smart Battleship (SBS) and autonomous navigation technology, will also be showcased. This system is capable of detecting and removing mines using a self-destruct method.

A Hanwha official stated, "As Europe responds to rearmament and changes in security environments, we will proactively address regional security demands by leveraging future technologies and local production systems."

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