If it wasn't I sure hope it is now. Even if it costs the same per intercept having a "just as good" option is never a bad thing.
EDIT: A quick search says $1-1.2M per missile.
Faster on the button than me
The Cheongung-II (M-SAM II) missile system, developed by South Korea's LIG Nex1, is recognized as a cost-effective alternative to Western systems, with individual interceptor missiles costing approximately
1.5 billion Korean won ($1.1 million to $1.26 million).
KED Global +2
Key Cost Details:
- Interceptor Missile: ~$1.1 - 1.26 million USD.
- Battery Cost: A single Cheongung-II battery is estimated to cost between 300 billion and 400 billion Korean won.
- System Comparison: The Cheongung-II is roughly one-third the price of a US-made Patriot missile system.
KED Global +3
Recent Export Deals:
- Saudi Arabia (2024): $3.2 billion for 10 batteries (includes support and logistics).
- Iraq (2024): ~$2.8 billion for 8 batteries.
- UAE (2022): $3.5 billion for 10 batteries.
Wikipedia +5
The system is a core component of South Korea's Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) and is designed for medium-altitude, medium-range interception of aircraft and ballistic missiles.
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The other American option
The unit cost of an SM-6 (RIM-174 Standard ERAM) anti-ballistic missile is approximately
$4 million to $4.9 million. As a premier multi-mission interceptor, it is often priced around $4.3 million (FY2021 average). Costs can vary slightly by variant (Block I/IA) and contract, but it remains a, key, high-capability asset.
Wikipedia +4
Key Cost Factors & Context
- Unit Price Range: Typically cited between $3.9 million and $4.9 million.
- FY2021 Average: Approximately $4,318,632 per unit.
- Recent Contracts: A January 2025 contract for SM-6 Block IA production amounted to $333 million.
- Comparison: While more expensive than standard surface-to-air missiles, it is significantly cheaper than the SM-3 Block IIA ($27.9 million). It is similar in cost to the Patriot PAC-3 MSE ($3.7-$4.2 million).
- Strategic Value: The SM-6 provides a "do-it-all" capability, serving as a triple-threat missile for anti-air, terminal-phase ballistic missile defense, and anti-surface warfare.
The War Zone +7
The SM-6's high cost is justified by its, unique, ability to address a broad spectrum of advanced, threats