Industrial fiber specialist company Welcron Co. announced on Monday that it has completed the expansion and enhancement of its Kimhae factory, under the umbrella of the company’s department responsible for defense industry operations.

In addition to its main product, functional bedding, Welcron manufactures various defense products such as ballistic plates, ballistic vests and helmets, explosive-proof tents, and explosion-proof bags through its defense arm. This month, they have continued to achieve stable growth by winning a contract worth approximately 5 billion won ($3.9 million) from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration for the supply of Level 4 ballistic plates.

The newly constructed Kimhae factory has a total area of approximately 9,900 square meters. It is equipped with large presses, autoclave facilities and other equipment for the manufacturing and development of various types of ballistic plates. With increased production capacity and the direct purchase of land and buildings instead of leasing, it is expected to provide cost-saving benefits in long-term operations and to strengthen its overall business activities based on its location.

On Friday, Welcron held a relocation ceremony at the new Kimhae factory, attended by about 30 people, including Chairman Lee Young-kyu and Welcron Hantec Co. President Shin Jung-jae.

“The relocation of the factory this time is aimed at preemptively responding to the increased demand and status of Korean defense due to the rise in conflicts in overseas regions, and to elevate global supply capabilities and new product development abilities,” a Welcron’s defense arm representative scaid. “We will actively pursue not only defense contracts but also overseas export markets and contribute to promoting the excellence of the South Korean defense industry.”

Amid the increasing international attention to the Korean defense industry, Welcron plans to actively utilize the new factory to concentrate its technological capabilities on the development of applique armor plates used in military ships and vessels, mine-protected vehicles and armored vehicles.

They also plan to enhance their competitiveness in overseas defense markets, leveraging superior product competitiveness such as lightweight personal armor plates compared to armor plates of the same protection level.

By Yang Yeon-ho and Chang Iou-chung

[ⓒ Pulse by Maeil Business News Korea & mk.co.kr, All rights reserved]