Korea’s defense and knowledge economy ministries joined forces yesterday in a plan to develop new, advanced textiles that can be used by the military.

Defense Minister Kim Tae-young and Knowledge Economy Minister Choi Kyung-hwan signed a memorandum of understanding that outlines support for development of indigenous materials for military use to raise the quality of life for soldiers and enhance the fighting capability of the armed forces.

The Ministry of Knowledge Economy said it will set aside 500 million won ($436,000) to set up a joint working-level committee to select materials with the greatest growth potential, and fund work to manufacture a prototype “digital uniform” for future soldiers.

It also said part of the 58 billion won fund earmarked for research and development in textiles can be used to help local companies meet military requirements.

R&D support will be used to make new camouflage materials that can be used in uniforms, tents and “smart” suits that merge fabrics with information technology.

“The materials will be lighter, more durable and help dissipate sweat while being water-resistant and helping to maintain warmth in adverse conditions,” an official said.

The MOU, meanwhile, calls for the defense ministry to use locally made materials in their uniforms and gear whenever possible.

The Korean military spends an average of 300 billion won on clothing and various fabric-based gear annually, with 80 billion of the total used to import products. Once development takes place, some imports can be replaced with locally made goods starting in 2011.

Expanded use of locally developed materials is important because it can also fuel exports down the road.

Source: JoongAng Daily, March 6, 2010