Seoul: Hanwha Systems Co., a key player in defense electronics and ICT solutions under the Hanwha Group, announced on Tuesday it has clinched a significant contract valued at 205 billion won (approximately US$146.2 million). This contract, signed with the South Korean arms procurement agency, focuses on providing essential maintenance support for a crucial Army weapon system. According to Yonhap News Agency, the agreement is structured as a performance-based logistics (PBL) deal with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration. Under this deal, Hanwha Systems is tasked with offering maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the Cheonma. The Cheonma is a short-range surface-to-air guided weapon system that is mounted on Army armored vehicles, playing a vital role in South Korea's defense strategy. A PBL contract such as this one places the responsibility on the weapon system developer for not just the development and deployment, but also the ongoing operation and maintenance of the weapon syste m. This ensures the consistent and reliable availability of key munitions, which are critical for the defense forces. For this particular project, Hanwha Systems will leverage its proprietary MRO platform known as TOMMS. This platform will be utilized to maintain and support weapon systems both within South Korea and internationally. By incorporating artificial intelligence technology, TOMMS has the capability to predict abnormalities, analyze faults, and ensure that weapon systems remain at optimal combat readiness. This technological advantage is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and reliability of military operations. This development is significant as it highlights Hanwha Systems' commitment to advancing military technology and support. The company's participation in such a high-stakes contract underscores its position as a leader in defense solutions. The accompanying file photo provided by Hanwha Systems on Sept. 11, 2024, showcases the company's booth and its cutting-edge maintenance, repair, an d overhaul technology at the 2024 Land Forces defense exposition held in Melbourne.