How the Middle East Conflict is Shaping South Korea's Defense Supply Chain: Insights from Defense Minister An Gyu-baek

Daniel Kim | 2026.04.10

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Reviewed the Middle East conflict's impact on defense supply chains; stressed securing supply-chain stability.
Met with defense contractors and field personnel, urging “manage every detail without gaps.”

 Ministry of National Defense
 Ministry of National Defense
South Korea’s Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-baek visited LIG D&A’s Daejeon House (formerly LIG Nex1) in Daejeon on the 10th. The firm produces the Cheongung-II missile interceptor. Ahn toured the facility to assess the defense supply chain amid the Middle East conflict and to meet with industry officials.

He was briefed on current supply-chain operations and on how the conflict is affecting weapons-system deliveries, and he took industry proposals for stabilizing the network.

“The conflict in the Middle East has increased uncertainty in global oil markets and supply chains,” he said. “At times like this, government, industry and related agencies must share information and work together to find solutions.”

Ahn also inspected production lines for key weapons systems and commended company personnel for their work.

“The defense industry is a bulwark of national security and a core engine of growth,” he said. “With continued uncertainty stemming from the Middle East conflict, do not let your guard down — scrutinize even the smallest links in the supply chain.”

He urged the Defense Acquisition Program Administration to continuously identify field-level difficulties and respond proactively to resolve them, and pledged that the government will provide whole-of-government support to help keep the defense supply chain stable.