KAI currently assembling FA-50 aircraft destined for Poland and Thailand (photo : ROKArmedForces)
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is doubling its production capacity of FA-50 Fighting Eagle aircraft by building two additional production lines by end of 2024.
During the recent tour of the facility for journalists, KAI officials commented that they are doing so to meet the high demand for light fighters in the international market. Multiple new customers are currently eyeing the FA-50 due to its competitive cost and delivery timelines according to KAI officials.
The highly-automated KAI production facility is currently assembling FA-50 aircraft destined for Poland and Thailand, as well as the 6th and final KF-21 Boramae prototype which will be fully assembled within a month. Doubling the production capacity for a single aircraft type shows that KAI is confident in the future of the FA-50 platform. Just recently, KAI released a roadmap showcasing its plan to continue developing the FA-50 platform into the future.
In addition to European, Asian, and Middle Eastern markets, KAI is eyeing the United States as its next major customer.
Based on recent successes in Poland and Malaysia, KAI officials are optimistic that they will be able to secure a large contract from the United States Air Force and the United States Navy for up to 500 FA-50 aircraft. Although the USAF previously selected the Boeing-Saab T-7A Red Hawk for its T-X program, the project has been met with continued delays and cost overruns.
US Navy recently released a Request for Information (RFI) for its Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program to replace the aging T-45 Goshawk advanced trainers. UJTS program places great emphasis on delivery timeline, which KAI believes it will be able to meet. KAI officials believe they'll have good news by end of 2025.
Additionally, USAF has requirements for 128 aircraft for its Advanced Tactical Trainer (ATT) program and US Navy has separate requirement of 60~70 aircraft for its Tactical Surrogate Aircraft (TSA) program.
(Segye)