Central Europe and the K-Defense Model Connection

Transatlantic Alternatives and Strategic Thinking

doi: 10.32563/hsz.2026.3.9

Abstract

Following the 2022 Ukrainian war, an unprecedented demand surge occurred in the global arms market, particularly in Europe. In this context, South Korea's defense industry emerged as a strategic alternative to traditional NATO suppliers. This study examines the characteristics of the K-Defense model and its potential adaptation in Central Europe. Our analysis focuses on the Polish-South Korean defense industrial cooperation, highlighting the model's key features: rapid delivery capabilities, NATO compatibility, and technology transfer aimed at local industrial development. The research explores how South Korea can simultaneously meet alliance interests and its national strategy while offering competitive export solutions for Central European countries.

Keywords:

K-Defense defence capability developement NATO-interoperability Central Europe alliance integration

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