South Korea unveils next-generation hydrogen-powered battle tank

South Korea's Hyundai Rotem has officially launched development of the K3 main battle tank, in collaboration with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality.

Scheduled to enter production in 2040, the K3 represents the country’s most ambitious armored vehicle program to date, Caliber.Az reports via Interesting Engineering.

Designed as a major leap beyond the K2 Black Panther, the K3 introduces a revolutionary hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system. Early versions will incorporate a hybrid hydrogen-diesel powertrain, with future models transitioning fully to fuel cells. This change is expected to reduce thermal and acoustic signatures while enhancing mobility and endurance on the battlefield.

“The next-generation main battle tank surpasses all capabilities of today’s MBTs, providing more efficient mission employment with the latest technologies for future warfare,” Hyundai Rotem stated.

The K3 will be equipped with a 130mm smoothbore gun on an unmanned turret, supported by an AI-powered fire control system for autonomous target engagement. The turret will also feature multi-purpose anti-tank guided missiles with up to 8 km range and a remote weapons station for short-range defense.

Crew safety is a priority, with a low-profile hull and an armored capsule for the three-member crew—driver, gunner, and commander—separated from ammunition storage.

Advanced defense systems include Directional Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM), an Active Protection System (APS), and a drone jamming suite. The K3 will also feature stealth-inspired geometry, modular armor, autonomous driving modes, and deployable reconnaissance drones.

This initiative signals South Korea’s commitment to innovation and energy independence in defense, potentially making the K3 the world’s first hydrogen-powered main battle tank.

By Sabina Mammadli