WDS 2026: Hanwha develops next-generation APS

Hanwha Systems displays its active protection system (APS) at WDS 2026. (Janes/Vishal Sengupta)

South Koreaʼs Hanwha Systems is developing an upgraded version of its active protection system (APS), a company official told Janes at the World Defense Show (WDS) 2026, held in Riyadh from 8 to 12 February.

The spokesperson said the upgraded APS is being designed to provide top-attack protection against incoming loitering munitions and to intercept high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) and kinetic energy (KE) rounds. The baseline version of Hanwha Systemsʼ APS counters primarily rocket-propelled grenades and anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).

According to the official, the upgraded version will also incorporate new software to enable the detection of slow‑moving unmanned aerial vehicles and to allow greater launcher elevation for more effective counter top‑attack protection. The Hanwha Systems official provided no additional details about the new software.

The APS integrates electro‑optic/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, providing passive visual and thermal detection, with four active electronically scanned array (AESA) flat‑panel radar antennas mounted around the vehicle to deliver full 360° horizontal coverage.

Two hard‑kill effector launchers are fitted to each side of the turret, with each launcher carrying two cylindrical interceptors. Upon engagement, the interceptors detonate an explosive charge in close proximity to an incoming threat, destroying or disrupting it sufficiently to prevent penetration of the protected platform.

The company official said testing of the upgraded APS is scheduled for 2027.

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Hanwha Systems develops new active protection system