The companies said Wednesday they signed a memorandum of understanding to support the successful development of the missile system, including its integration with the KF-21 and eventual deployment.
The latest agreement builds on memorandums signed in February covering cooperation on domestically developed aircraft, exports and aviation weapons.
Hanwha Aerospace and KAI are also seeking to combine their overseas networks to pursue package exports of Korean fighter aircraft and locally developed weapons.
KAI has built an international aircraft sales network, while Hanwha Aerospace has expanded its global defense presence through products including the K9 self-propelled howitzer and Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system.
Hanwha Aerospace already supplies major components for the KF-21, including the aircraft’s engine, landing gear and flight control systems. Affiliate Hanwha Systems provides equipment including the active electronically scanned array, or AESA, radar, electro-optical targeting pod, infrared search and track system and mission computer.
Hanwha Aerospace is also developing technology with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) to enable communication and integration between the KF-21 and air-to-air missiles. The project is scheduled for completion in the first half of next year.
The company submitted its final proposal on Sept. 7 for the ADD-led long-range air-to-air missile development program.
A ducted ramjet uses oxygen from the surrounding air to burn fuel, allowing a missile to sustain high speeds over longer distances, a key requirement for long-range air-to-air weapons.
“We will make companywide efforts to ensure the successful localization of the long-range air-to-air missile, which is directly linked to the competitiveness of Korea’s indigenous fighter aircraft,” a Hanwha Aerospace official said. “We will also contribute to strengthening the competitiveness of domestically developed aviation weapons through continued cooperation between companies.”
AJP Takeaways
- Hanwha Aerospace and KAI will cooperate on a Korean-made long-range air-to-air missile for the KF-21.
- The two firms also aim to pursue package exports of Korean fighter jets and weapons.
- Hanwha Aerospace has submitted a proposal for South Korea’s long-range air-to-air missile program.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.