K-21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle | SOUTH KOREAN TROOP TRANSPORT

The South Korean K21 Next Infantry Fighting Vehicle (NIFV), was developed in South Korea to replace the ageing KIFV. Development commenced in 1999. Eventually the new IFV was adopted as the K-21. Its production started in 2008 and approximately 900 vehicles were planned to be built. First vehicles were fielded in 2009. The K-21 is superior to most of the current IFVs in many respects. It also costs twice cheaper to build this vehicle comparing with the M2 Bradley IFV. It was expected that this armored vehicle will have some export success due to its low price. The K-21 is lighter comparing with most modern IFVs, as it was designed using composite materials to save weight wherever possible. Composition of the K-21 armor is still secret. It is assumed that this IFV has multi-layer armor with glass fiber, ceramic and aluminum alloy. It is known that front arc provides protection against 30 mm armor-piercing rounds. All-round protection is against 14.5 mm armor-piercing rounds. Vehicle is also fitted wi