The military air defense system Cheongung-II on Sept. 29, 2025, is unveiled at a media day event on Armed Forces Day. (Yonhap News)

By Kang Gahui

The domestically developed Cheongung-II, a mid-range surface-to-air missile defense system, on March 3 was deployed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to intercept missiles launched by Iran.

The system is Korea's first of its kind exported overseas to be used in combat.

Media reports said a Cheongung-II battery deployed to the UAE military recently intercepted multiple ballistic and cruise missiles from Iran. The UAE's mid-range air defense network consists of the U.S.-made Patriot missiles, Israeli-made Arrow missiles and Korea's Cheongung-II.

The UAE Ministry of Defence on March 3 said it intercepted 172 of 186 Iranian ballistic missiles for an interception rate of approximately 92% as well as all eight cruise missiles.

In 2022, the Arab country concluded a deal with Korea's LIG Nex1, Hanwha Systems and Hanwha Aerospace to acquire 10 Cheongung-II missile batteries. Two are deployed.

kgh89@korea.kr