On a Korean training ground, drones scanned ahead, mapping obstacles and spotting threats. Then, an AI-enabled weapons system identified targets and initiated suppressive fire — all before troops moved forward.
This week, South Korea conducted its first live-fire exercise featuring AI-enabled manned-unmanned combat systems, deploying the Korean Combat Engineering Vehicle alongside drones, robotic platforms, and loitering munitions, Yonhap News reported.
An AI-powered remote-controlled weapon station delivered suppressive fire as a ground robot checked for mines, a K600 breaching tank opened a corridor, and loitering munitions struck concealed targets.
The demonstration supports the Army TIGER 4.0 modernization initiative, which integrates AI, networked battlefield awareness, and manned-unmanned teaming into frontline operations.
“We will continue to conduct training and combat experiments in various environments,” said Lt. Col. Bae Young-hwan, commander of the Cheolma Battalion, describing the drill as part of an effort to build elite combat capabilities around integrated combat systems.
By sequencing reconnaissance, autonomous targeting, remote fire, robotic mine inspection, and breaching into a coordinated chain, the exercise compressed the sensor-to-shooter cycle central to Army TIGER 4.0.
The exercise also reflects South Korea’s broader push in human-machine teaming, including efforts by Hyundai Rotem and Shield AI to develop AI-enabled combat platforms.
