Hanwha Aerospace Signs Contract to Supply Engines for KF-21 Fighter

Hanwha Aerospace, South Korea's leading aerospace and defense corporation, has marked a significant milestone in its storied history. Today, the company announced the signing of a pivotal contract with the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to supply the engines for the KF-21 Boramae fighter jets. Valued at approximately USD 401 million (556 billion KRW), this contract solidifies Hanwha Aerospace's role as a cornerstone in the development and production of South Korea's indigenous fighter aircraft.

The contract, spanning from June 2024 to December 2027, encompasses the delivery of over 40 F414 engines, along with spare modules, engine maintenance manuals, and on-site technical support. These engines, to be installed in the first production batch of the KF-21, underscore Hanwha Aerospace's critical role as the nation’s sole aircraft engine manufacturer, a responsibility that extends to the entire production run of the KF-21.

With over 45 years of expertise and the production of more than 10,000 engines, Hanwha Aerospace is well-positioned to meet the demands of this ambitious project. The company's commitment to timely delivery and high-quality production is unwavering, drawing on its rich history of supplying engines for various Korean military aircraft, including the F-4, KF-5, KF-16, F-15K, and T-50. These engines were produced through overseas license agreements, a testament to Hanwha’s long-standing partnership with global aerospace giants.

The F414 engines for the KF-21 will be produced at Hanwha Aerospace’s state-of-the-art Changwon Plant 1, under a license from GE Aerospace. This collaboration not only ensures the integration of advanced technology but also strengthens Hanwha Aerospace’s capabilities in producing high-performance aviation engines domestically.

Beyond this contract, Hanwha Aerospace is actively investing in the future of aerospace technology. The company is channeling significant resources into research and development of 6th generation engine technologies. This forward-looking approach positions Hanwha at the forefront of global aerospace innovation, aligning with South Korea’s broader strategic goals in defense and technology.

A spokesperson for Hanwha Aerospace emphasized the company’s dedication to excellence and innovation: “As Korea’s only specialized aircraft engine company, we are committed to supplying high-quality engines without delay. We will dedicate all our resources to developing independent aviation engine technology for national defense and securing future growth opportunities for Korea.”

This contract serves not only as a testament to Hanwha Aerospace's technical prowess and reliability but also as a critical stepping stone towards the future of Korean aerospace and defense capabilities. By securing the engine supply for the KF-21, Hanwha Aerospace is not just supporting a single project; it is laying the groundwork for South Korea's self-reliance in advanced military aviation technology. This move is expected to bolster the nation’s defense infrastructure and stimulate further advancements in the aerospace sector.

In conclusion, Hanwha Aerospace’s contract to supply engines for the KF-21 Boramae fighter jets marks a defining moment in South Korea’s defense and aerospace industry. It highlights the company’s enduring commitment to innovation, excellence, and national security, paving the way for a future where South Korea stands at the cutting edge of global aerospace technology.