Feb. 23 (UPI) — L3 Technologies was awarded a $17.3 million contract to supply 800-horsepower transmission kits to power South Korea’s K21 infantry fighting vehicles.
The K21 is marketed as a next-generation platform, and has been designed by Hanwha Defense Systems to engage enemy infantry fighting vehicles on the battlefield. L3’s contract with the South Korean government also includes transmission kits to power the country’s light recovery vehicles.
“We are pleased to receive this important award, which builds on our long-standing partnership with the Republic of Korea by delivering L3 systems that are the most widely used, battle-proven combat vehicle transmissions in the medium-weight class today,” L3 chairman and CEO Michael Strianese said in a press release.
Strianese went on to add the agreement with South Korea expands the company’s international business, and includes follow-on opportunities.
The transmission kits will be provided by L3 Combat Propulsion Systems, located in Muskegon, Mich.
South Korea is procuring the K21 as a replacement for the K200 armored transport vehicle. The newer variant is 20 percent lighter than its predecessor, and is armed with a 105mm turret weapon.