Croatian robotics firm DOK-ING and South Korea’s LIG Nex1 have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Seoul to co-develop next-generation unmanned ground systems (UGS), marking a fresh push to link the two countries’ defence industries. The signing took place on Wednesday, September 10 (local time) on the margins of the Seoul Defense Dialogue.
Croatia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić attended the ceremony, calling the agreement “a new page” in bilateral industrial relations and a pathway for other Croatian firms to access the Korean market. The Croatian Ministry of Defence said South Korea’s defence sector—praised for quality, precision and competitive pricing—offers significant potential for collaboration with Croatian companies.
In a brief statement on the deal, Croatia Week reported that the partnership will focus on designing and developing advanced UGS platforms, while strengthening broader economic cooperation. SeeNews likewise noted that the MoU formalizes joint work on next-gen unmanned systems.
Local outlet N1 underscored that the understanding was announced alongside ministerial talks in Seoul and framed by Zagreb’s goal to expand its defence-industrial footprint abroad.
Why it matters: The tie-up aligns with Croatia’s strategy to scale defence manufacturing and exports while diversifying partners. It also builds on DOK-ING’s growing international posture—following, for example, a 2024 collaboration announcement with Rheinmetall to pursue unmanned military vehicles—suggesting momentum behind Croatian UGS capabilities.
