Hyundai Rotem has achieved its first export of the K808 White Tiger (Beckho) wheeled armored vehicles (WAVs) to Peru. The company on April 30 said it has been selected as the preferred bidder for the WAV supply project ordered by the Peruvian Army’s armory (FAME SAC). Upon finalizing the contract, Hyundai Rotem will supply 30 units of the K808 to the Peruvian Army through the main contractor STX. The deal is valued at around $60 million (about 82.8 billion won).
This project marks the first entry of a domestically produced combat armored vehicle into the Central and South American markets. The K808 White Tiger, noted for its excellent mobility, is the standard wheeled armored vehicle of the South Korean military, classified as an infantry fighting vehicle capable of rapid troop transportation in the open fields at the front lines.
Since initiating its own WAV development in 2003, Hyundai Rotem has continuously enhanced its capabilities by developing various prototype models. After securing a WAV system development project in 2012, the company completed the development and established national defense standards by 2016. To date, more than 500 units have been delivered to the South Korean military, with the fourth batch of mass production set to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
Hyundai Rotem offers two models of WAVs: the 6x6 wheel drive K806 and the 8x8 wheel drive K808. The K808, which will be supplied to Peru, is designed for optimal maneuverability in rough battlefield conditions and features several enhancements over the K806. It is equipped with run-flat tires that can continue to operate even after being punctured and an automatic air pressure control system that adjusts tire pressure based on the ground contact pressure. It also includes an amphibious propulsion system, allowing it to cross rivers.
From the development stage, the WAVs have incorporated a modular concept, enabling the mounting of various armaments and equipment according to mission requirements. A vehicle equipped for wheeled command post operations, which enables real-time network-based troop command, was developed and delivered to the South Korean military last year.
The WAVs incorporate technology from Hyundai Motors. Based on the fundamental design similar to commercial vehicles, these armored vehicles are equipped with military-grade engines developed from Hyundai’s commercial engines used in buses and trucks.
Through this export, Hyundai Rotem is expected to establish a foundation for expanding its business in the Central and South American markets. There is a growing demand for armored vehicles in these regions due to the need for counter-terrorism and maintaining law and order. Hyundai Rotem has said that it will actively seek additional business opportunities in neighboring countries and respond promptly to market demand.
