Hyundai Rotem, a South Korean subsidiary of the Hyundai Motor Group specializing in defense manufacturing, has achieved a key milestone in its global expansion with a strategic defense agreement signed with Peru. The partnership, formalized on November 16, 2024, in Lima, in the presence of both nations’ leaders, outlines the delivery of K2 tanks and K808 wheeled armored vehicles as part of Peru’s armed forces modernization program.
The K2 Black Panther, a next-generation main battle tank (MBT), was developed by Hyundai Rotem to replace the aging M48 Patton tanks in service with the South Korean Army. It combines advanced firepower, mobility, and cutting-edge protection systems. Armed with a 120mm Rheinmetall L55 smoothbore gun produced under license, the K2 is capable of firing 10 rounds per minute with high accuracy thanks to an automatic loader. The tank is compatible with a variety of munitions, including tungsten armor-piercing shells and multi-purpose HEAT rounds. Its additional weaponry includes a 7.62mm coaxial machine gun and a 12.7mm heavy machine gun mounted on the turret.
The agreement between Hyundai Rotem President Lee Yong-bae and FAME S.A.C. President Jorge Zapata marks an important step in Peru’s procurement process. This preliminary agreement defines the program’s scope and scale, with future contracts expected to specify delivery timelines, technical details, training programs, and maintenance requirements.
This development builds on Hyundai Rotem’s prior success in May 2024 when it secured a contract with FAME to supply wheeled armored vehicles. The new agreement expands this collaboration to include K2 tanks, related variants, and additional armored vehicles, highlighting Peru’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities with advanced defense systems.
South Korea’s government has played a vital role in facilitating this agreement through active diplomatic support. Initiatives included a letter from President Yoon Suk-yeol to Peruvian President Dina Boluarte commemorating the 60th anniversary of bilateral relations and emphasizing the potential for increased defense collaboration. The South Korean Embassy in Peru provided further assistance, acting as a key mediator during negotiations.