Domestic defense companies have joined hands to strengthen the export competitiveness of the Korean fighter KF-21.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), the system integrator for the KF-21, said on the 21st that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Systems, and LIG Nex1 at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) held at KINTEX in Goyang.

KAI says on the 21st that it signs a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha System, and LIG Nex1 at the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) held at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi, to strengthen export competitiveness of the Korean Fighter Experimental (KF-21). From the left, Choi Jong-jin, head of Future Battlefield Business at LIG Nex1; Jo Woo-rae, head of Export Marketing at KAI; Kim Seon, head of Aerospace Business at Hanwha Aerospace; and Kwak Jong-woo, head of DE Business at Hanwha System, pose for a commemorative photo after signing the cooperation agreement. /Courtesy of KAI

Hanwha Aerospace has expertise in aircraft engines and major power systems; Hanwha Systems in avionics, radar, and electronic warfare; and LIG Nex1 in guided weapons and electronic equipment.

The four companies agreed to share measures to secure global-level cost competitiveness and reduce costs, and to pursue joint export marketing and industrial cooperation. They also plan to actively promote cooperation for KF-21 exports by sharing technology and market information and strengthening trust.

A KAI official said, "By strengthening our cooperation network with major domestic defense corporations through this agreement, we will be able to secure the first export customer and establish a bridgehead for overseas expansion," adding, "We expect it to serve as a new milestone for strengthening the competitiveness of the domestic aerospace defense industry and innovating the supply chain."

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