S. Korea develops new smoke pots capable of blocking infrared detection in battlefields

By Lim Chang-won Posted : August 14, 2020, 11:31 Updated : August 14, 2020, 11:31

[Courtesy of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration]

SEOUL -- South Korea has developed smoke pots that can block not only visual observation but also infrared detection in battlefields. A defense ministry-controlled state body in charge of arms acquisition, highlighted the export competitiveness of home-made smoke pots, citing their excellent performance and lower price than U.S. products.

Smoke canisters or pots contain chemicals that produce a great quantity of smoke when ignited. U.S. troops use floating smoke pots to screen amphibious forces from enemy observation posts and artillery fire.

Samyang Chemical and other companies were involved in the development of new smoke pots and the localization of components, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said in a statement. The new product used a low-toxic material to minimize damage to the natural ecosystem.

"The military's viability will be greatly enhanced when it is deployed," Lim Young-il, a senior DAPA official, was quoted as saying. "We will work with developers to make exports possible in the future," he said. DAPA said the new smoke pots would improve operational capabilities because they interfere with the observation of visual and infrared sensors and block aiming shots.
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