No next-year budget for planned K-LUCAS attack drone

South Korea's military has said it plans to bring in the long-range K-LUCAS attack drone early.

But the government has allocated no money for it in next year's budget.

The drone is designed for one-way attacks, and the lack of funding raises questions about how soon it can be introduced.

Under current law, a feasibility study must be completed before funds can be budgeted for the project.

The issue comes as North Korea has shown off new stealth drones, highlighting its focus on drone warfare.

This has prompted concern that South Korea is moving too slowly to build up its drone capability.

The sources do not say when the study will be completed or when funding may be approved.