SK On is to introduce its high-voltage mid-nickel battery at InterBattery 2025. (Image courtesy of SK On)
SEOUL, Feb. 4 (Korea Bizwire) — SK On is accelerating efforts to diversify beyond electric vehicles, setting its sights on the defense industry as a new source of long-term growth for advanced batteries.
The South Korean battery maker is in talks with a U.S. defense contractor to supply batteries for artificial intelligence-powered unmanned submarines, according to industry officials on Wednesday. A major European defense company has also approached SK On regarding batteries for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, helicopters and cargo planes.
The move reflects a strategic pivot toward military and unmanned systems markets, where high reliability and safety standards are paramount. Defense platforms — including unmanned underwater vehicles, autonomous ground systems and aircraft — require batteries that can deliver high energy density and strong output while withstanding extreme conditions such as shock, vibration and temperature fluctuations.
Industry analysts say SK On is likely to propose ultra-high-nickel ternary lithium-ion batteries in the near term, while positioning solid-state batteries as a longer-term solution. Given the lengthy validation processes required for defense applications, large-scale supply is not expected before 2028.
‘HR-SHERPA’ Multi-Purpose Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SK On has already secured a foothold in military unmanned systems. The company supplies battery cells for Hyundai Rotem’s next-generation multipurpose unmanned vehicle program. Hyundai Rotem is conducting field tests after assembling battery modules and packs for the vehicles, which incorporate AI-based autonomous driving and swarm control technologies.
The company’s solid-state battery development is viewed as a key advantage in competing for defense contracts. Such batteries promise higher energy density and enhanced safety — qualities that are particularly valuable in space-constrained military systems.
SK On has set 2029 as its target for commercializing solid-state batteries and is operating a pilot production line at its Daejeon research center. It is developing sulfide-based solid-state batteries and lithium metal batteries, while collaborating with U.S.-based Solid Power to accelerate cell design and process development.
As rapid technological advances bring forward the era of autonomous defense systems and “physical AI,” industry officials expect battery makers with next-generation technologies to emerge as major beneficiaries.
“The evolution of unmanned defense solutions is likely to accelerate,” one industry executive said. “Companies that secure advanced battery capabilities early will be well positioned for growth.”
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
