Unveiling the KAAV-II: How South Korea’s Next-Gen Amphibious Assault Vehicle Outperforms Its Predecessor

Translation result [Herald Economy = Reporter Moon Young-gyu] Hanwha Aerospace has revealed the full-scale look of its next-generation amphibious assault armored vehicle, the KAAV-II.

Yoo Yong-won, a member of the National Assembly’s National Defense Committee representing the People Power Party, posted photos of the KAAV-II on his social media account on the 18th. He wrote, “Detailed performance data can’t be released for security reasons, but notable features include a water speed of roughly 20 km/h (about 12.4 mph), a 40 mm CTA main gun, improved protection, and a larger troop compartment.”

Amphibious assault armored vehicles are a core component of the Marine Corps’ landing capability. Yoo inspected a KAAV-II prototype in person during a visit to Hanwha Aerospace’s Changwon plant on the 13th.

“Based on hands-on evaluation, the KAAV-II surpasses the current KAAV in several key areas and raises expectations for the system development phase due to start next year,” Yoo said. “It brings together strong sea and land mobility and stability, a design focused on troop survivability, and modern combat systems.”

He described the KAAV-II as “the next critical capability that will substantially strengthen our Marine Corps’ operational performance.”

The Marine Corps launched development of the KAAV-II in 2015 using the existing KAAV as a baseline. The requirements called for a water speed exceeding the current 13.2 km/h (about 8.2 mph). The program also aims to upgrade firepower and add armor to improve survivability.

Photos released by Yoo show a main gun that appears more capable than the machine guns on the current KAAV. Officials say system development is planned to conclude in 2028, with mass production slated to begin in 2029.

Yoo also thanked the researchers and defense industry personnel involved in the project.

“The KAAV-II’s advanced capabilities are the product of the unseen dedication and hard work of researchers and defense sector professionals,” he said. “I extend my sincere thanks and encouragement to everyone working quietly and diligently to raise the profile of Korea’s defense industry and safeguard national security.”

“The National Assembly will continue to provide robust support so the KAAV-II achieves top-tier performance and strict safety standards and is successfully fielded,” Yoo added. “I expect our Marine Corps—the nation’s strategic mobile force—to leverage advanced technology for further progress and to proudly carry on the ‘Invincible Marine’ spirit.”