Under the MOU, Hanwha Aerospace and KAI will collaborate on the systematic integration of indigenous air-launched weapons across KAI’s fighter portfolio.The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on February 9 in Riyadh, on the sidelines of the third edition of the World Defense Show 2026. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation on aircraft–weapon system integration as well as joint marketing efforts aimed at expanding exports of Korean fighter platforms and their associated air-delivered munitions.

Under the MOU, Hanwha Aerospace and KAI will collaborate on the systematic integration of indigenous air-launched weapons across KAI’s fighter portfolio. The partnership also reflects a shared export strategy, responding to growing overseas demand for complete, platform-plus-weapons packages rather than standalone aircraft.

Both companies plan to support and execute air-launched weapon development programs led by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), with the stated goal of achieving global top-tier technological standards. Hanwha Aerospace has already been conducting ADD-led preliminary research on advanced missile concepts, including long-range air-to-air missiles powered by ducted solid-fuel ramjet engines, as well as supersonic air-to-surface and air-to-ship missiles.

“K-defense credibility has risen significantly, and overseas customers are increasingly requesting not just aircraft platforms but fully integrated, Korean-made operational ecosystems,” said KAI President Cha Jae-byung. “Through joint marketing and industrial cooperation, domestic defense companies can collectively accelerate exports.”

Hanwha Aerospace President Son Jae-il emphasized the industrial synergy behind the initiative. “By combining our experience across air-to-air, air-to-surface, and surface-to-air missile programs with KAI’s fighter system integration expertise, we are confident we can achieve our objectives for indigenous air-launched weapons,” he said. “This cooperation will strengthen Korea’s air defense posture while reinforcing global customer confidence in K-defense solutions.”

Industry analysts view the agreement as part of a broader shift toward tightly integrated aircraft-weapon ecosystems, a model increasingly favored in the global fighter market as air forces seek interoperability, sustainment efficiency, and long-term operational sovereignty.

K-DEFENSE NEWS | Strategic Analysis Desk

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