Hanwha Aerospace signs contract to supply engines for KF-21 fighter

Hanwha Aerospace, South Korea's leading aerospace and defense corporation, announced today that it signed a contract with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to supply the first mass production engines for the KF-21. The contract is valued around USD 401 million (556 billion KRW). The contract period runs from June 2024 to December 2027, during which Hanwha Aerospace will deliver over 40 F414 engines and spare modules for the KF-21, as well as provide engine maintenance manuals and on-site technical support.

The supplied engines will be installed in the first batch of KF-21, as Hanwha Aerospace is obliged to supplying engines until the end of the KF-21 production run as the country's sole aircraft engine manufacturer.

Drawing on its expertise in producing over 10,000 engines over the past 45 years, Hanwha Aerospace is committed to ensuring the delivery of KF-21 engines on time. The company is also focused on developing technical capabilities and building an industrial ecosystem to enable the installation of advanced aviation engines developed with Korea's own technology.

Since 1979, Hanwha Aerospace has supplied engines for Korean military aircraft, including the F-4, KF-5, KF-16, F-15K, and T-50, through overseas license production. The F414 engine for the KF-21 will be produced at the company's Changwon Plant 1, utilizing a license from GE Aerospace.

This contract serves as a stepping stone for Hanwha Aerospace's plans to develop next-generation engine technologies. The company is actively pursuing research and development in 6th generation engine technology, positioning itself at the forefront of global aerospace innovation.

A Hanwha Aerospace spokesperson stated, "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."