Hanwha Aerospace and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly pursue future defence and aerospace initiatives, marking a new step in strengthening South Korea’s aerospace industry on the global stage. The agreement was formalized on February 5 in Seoul, Aju Business Daily reported.
Under the MoU, the two companies will cooperate on the development of unmanned aircraft systems and domestically produced aircraft engines, while also exploring opportunities in the international commercial space sector. The partnership will cover research and development activities as well as joint export efforts for emerging aerospace systems.
Among the long-term goals is the development of an advanced propulsion system for next-generation combat aircraft, potentially intended to succeed South Korea’s KF-21 fighter. To support strategic alignment, Hanwha and KAI plan to launch a Future Aerospace Strategy Committee involving senior leadership from both firms.
The agreement comes as South Korea’s defence industry continues to deepen collaboration with both domestic and international partners. In 2023, Seoul partnered with Boeing to pursue joint R&D in advanced weapons and high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned systems.
In 2025, South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration and Embraer agreed to broaden cooperation in manufacturing, technology transfer, and market development. That year also saw KAI enter a strategic partnership with Kratos Defense & Security Solutions to co-develop manned-unmanned teaming technologies for future combat aircraft.
