JERUSALEM — This week, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Hyundai Rotem announced their collaboration to incorporate, manufacture, and provide support for the Israeli-developed Trophy vehicle-protection system across South Korea’s K2 battle tanks and other future vehicle platforms.

In a shared statement, the companies highlighted that this initiative is the first instance of the Korean tanks being outfitted with such technology.

The partnership also extends to the K2PL model, which is specific to Poland, following a contract for 180 K2 tanks that was previously established between Poland and South Korea.

The agreement was formalized during the MSPO 2025 Defense Exhibition in Kielce, Poland, which occurred concurrently with the military parade in China and a summit between China, Russia, and North Korea.

The companies expressed that this agreement “demonstrates the shared commitment to provide cutting-edge active protection solutions for the Korean military, while also exploring opportunities for joint development, local manufacturing, and exports.”

Additionally, the deal to integrate the Trophy system is expected to positively impact the upcoming DSEI defense exhibition in London, starting September 9, where major Israeli defense firms will be participating.

However, the Israeli Ministry of Defense recently declared its withdrawal from the DSEI event following a decision by the organizers to exclude government representatives due to Israel’s actions in the Gaza conflict.

The Trophy system, which can be adapted for various military vehicles, is recognized as the only fully integrated Active Protection System (APS) used by NATO forces, according to its manufacturers.

Tanks scheduled to be equipped with the Trophy system include the U.S. Abrams, Israeli Merkava and Namer armored personnel carriers, the UK’s Challenger tanks, and Germany’s Leopard 2.

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