South Korean DAPA to build platform for military acquisitions

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South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has launched a blockchain-based project to help improve business-related operations of the country’s defense sector.

According to a press release dated April 4, the DAPA plans to develop a blockchain-based platform to help prevent the illegal alteration of defense business data and other benefits. This will ensure there is secure sharing of data on military acquisition projects between relevant governmental organizations. In addition, this will prevent data forgery within defense organizations.

Reportedly, this new project will bring together different organizations including the Defense Agency for Technology, Quality and the Agency for Defense Development. Working with these three agencies is aimed at ensuring the defense procurement operations are well-documented and there is maximum credibility.

DAPA explained that the innovation has a lot to offer:

“In addition, management of business proposal submission would be automated, eliminating the inconvenience of the traditional paper document process. The blockchain system would also have potential roles outside acquisition, helping reduce the burden on defense companies by allowing unified management of firearms transportation permits and notifications.”

While speaking on the new project, Kim Tae-gon, the senior planning and coordination officer at DAPA, said that the project is part of the agency’s plan to deploy blockchain within defense business systems and provide innovative public services.

Many government agencies in South Korea are already using blockchain technology. Last year, the Korea Internet and Security Agency (KISA), which is a part of the Ministry of Communication and Technology, confirmed that the number of blockchain projects in the country would soon double. South Korea expects to get more than $9 million this year from the blockchain pilot projects

In January 2019, the DAPA launched a pilot for the development of blockchain applications in the defense industry. Reportedly, South Korea’s government is working with other sub-organizations to aid with the projects. The government also plans to invest up to $530,000 into each project.

The South Korean Ministry of Science, ICT and Future Planning and Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries also launched a blockchain based project to bring new efficiencies to the container shipping industry.