South Korean manufacturers invest heavily in new UAV designs
The South Korean government has been funding half of the MPUV’s KRW16.16 billion ($12.9 million) development costs, with both civilian and military missions in mind. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
South Korean manufacturers were out in force with new UAV designs at Seoul ADEX 2023. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) was showing models of its conceptual Adaptable Aerial Platform, a loyal wingman, alongside the KF-21 fighter. The equipment could be used for jamming, ISR, attack and as decoys.
KAI also showed its NCUAV, a MALE UAV with 17m wingspan destined for the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA). Its 10-year development has been completed and flight test activity should conclude before the end of the year.
Brand new was KAI’s Advanced Air Vehicle (AAV) concept. Its latest C103 design improves upon the C101 model
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
Paris Air Show 2025: Lockheed says TR-3 upgrade “closing in” on completion
The TR-3 configured F-35 aircraft have rolled off production lines since July 2024, but are still not yet combat capable and are still awaiting final sign-off for the software upgrade.
-
Further funding allocated for Eurofighter Typhoon ECRS Mk2 radar programme
The latest tranche of funding from the UK government comes ahead of the radar's integration into Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft from 2028.
-
M-345 officially enters service as trainer for Italian Air Force
The Leonardo M-345 High-Efficiency Trainer (HET) basic/advanced trainer is similar to the M-346, which is the second part of the Italian Air Force’s training system, but is a substantially smaller and less powerful aircraft.
-
Belgium’s F-35A order progresses at it awaits first jet delivery by late 2025
The first aircraft delivery timeline confirmation comes as Belgium weighs up an additional F-3A buy from Lockheed Martin.