LIG Defense & Aerospace (LIG D&A) is collaborating with the U.S. defense startup Firehawk to develop the propulsion system for the 2.75-inch guided rocket 'Bigung.'
LIG D&A announced on October 14 that it signed a technology cooperation agreement (TA) with Firehawk during the AUSA 2026 defense exhibition held in Washington, D.C. on October 13.
Firehawk is a U.S. defense startup that is innovating rocket propulsion systems using advanced 3D printing technology. Under the agreement, the two companies will work together on the development of the Bigung propulsion system and explore possibilities for subsequent production and further collaboration.
The Bigung is a 2.75-inch guided rocket developed by LIG D&A in partnership with the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI). It was recognized for its performance after passing the U.S. Foreign Comparative Test (FCT) during the 2024 Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), the world's largest multinational maritime exercise.
This agreement is expected to strengthen LIG D&A's collaboration with U.S. companies and enhance its market entry prospects.
Baek Hyung-sik, head of LIG D&A's overseas business division, stated, "It is very meaningful to develop the Bigung again in collaboration with a U.S. company after the two countries worked together on its initial development."
Will Edwards, co-founder and CEO of Firehawk, said, "We will be able to provide more economical options in the fields of aviation and missile defense for the U.S. and its allies."
Meanwhile, LIG D&A is expanding its guided weapon business, following the mid-range surface-to-air missile 'Cheongung II' and the long-range surface-to-air missile 'L-SAM.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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