Defense & Military
GA-ASI and Hanwha Partner for Gray Eagle STOL UAS Production
GA-ASI and Hanwha Aerospace partner to co-develop and produce Gray Eagle STOL UAS with first flight in 2027 and deliveries in 2028.
GA-ASI and Hanwha Aerospace: Strategic Partnership for Gray Eagle STOL UAS Production
The recent agreement between General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and Hanwha Aerospace marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) development and international defense collaboration. Announced on October 14, 2025, this joint initiative focuses on the co-development and co-production of the Gray Eagle Short Takeoff and Landing (GE STOL) UAS, a platform designed to deliver advanced operational flexibility for military customers worldwide. The partnership is not only significant for the two companies involved but also for the broader landscape of defense technology and international cooperation.
The agreement is emblematic of a shift in global defense industry strategies, where alliances extend beyond technology transfers to encompass joint manufacturing and ecosystem development. By establishing a production facility in South Korea and leveraging both companies’ expertise, GA-ASI and Hanwha aim to address increasing demand for versatile, runway-independent UAS platforms. This move is set to impact not only the U.S. and South Korean defense sectors but also the global UAS market, which is projected to experience substantial growth in the coming decades.
As the Gray Eagle STOL UAS prepares for its first production-representative flight in 2027, the collaboration between GA-ASI and Hanwha Aerospace stands as a case study in cross-border innovation, technology sharing, and economic development. The implications for defense capabilities, industrial competitiveness, and military operations are far-reaching, warranting a closer examination of the partnership’s details, goals, and expected outcomes.
Background and Significance of the GA-ASI, Hanwha Agreement
Understanding the Partners: GA-ASI and Hanwha Aerospace
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a prominent U.S.-based developer and manufacturers of unmanned aircraft systems, best known for its Predator series, including the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper. With a longstanding reputation for delivering advanced UAS solutions to military and government clients, GA-ASI has played a central role in shaping modern aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Hanwha Aerospace, on the other hand, stands as a leading force in South Korea’s aerospace and defense sector. The company’s portfolio spans aircraft engines, radar systems, avionics, and now, a growing commitment to unmanned systems. Hanwha’s partnership with GA-ASI aligns with its strategic vision to become a comprehensive UAS company, leveraging its technological base to expand capabilities from design to production and maintenance.
The collaboration between these two industry leaders is designed to combine GA-ASI’s UAS expertise with Hanwha’s manufacturing and systems integration strengths. This synergy is expected to foster innovation, accelerate development timelines, and position both companies at the forefront of the rapidly evolving UAS market.
“GA-ASI and Hanwha are committed to investing in this project and building development and production capabilities in South Korea. We’ll be leveraging the expertise of both companies to quickly bring the Gray Eagle STOL to global customers.”
— David R. Alexander, President, GA-ASI
The Gray Eagle STOL UAS: Capabilities and Operational Flexibility
The Gray Eagle STOL UAS is engineered to deliver medium-altitude, long-endurance performance with a unique emphasis on operational runway independence. Unlike many traditional UAS platforms, the GE STOL is capable of taking off and landing on semi-improved surfaces such as dirt roads, fields, and even naval vessels, without the need for specialized catapults or arresting gear. This design attribute significantly expands deployment options and operational reach.
The demonstrator variant, known as Mojave, has already undergone notable trials, including a successful operation from a dirt strip and a landmark flight from the South Korean Navy’s amphibious landing ship, ROKS Dokdo, in 2024. These demonstrations underscore the platform’s adaptability in multi-domain operations, supporting missions ranging from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) to direct attack roles.
With a payload capacity of 1.6 tonnes, the Gray Eagle STOL can be configured for a variety of mission profiles. Its flexibility is expected to appeal to a broad spectrum of military customers seeking to enhance their operational agility and reduce dependency on fixed infrastructure.
“Co-producing GE [Gray Eagle] STOL in South Korea and the U.S. will create jobs and help Hanwha secure talent in related fields as well as foster our domestic (Korean) UAS industry ecosystem.”
— Jae-il Son, President and CEO, Hanwha Aerospace
Key Aspects of the Partnership and Market Impact
Agreement Details and Production Strategy
The agreement, finalized at the Association of the US Army (AUSA) conference in October 2025, outlines a comprehensive plan for co-development and co-production of the Gray Eagle STOL UAS. A central component of this plan is the establishment of a dedicated production facility in South Korea, which will handle final assembly and manufacturing. GA-ASI will oversee the final integration of mission systems, ensuring that both companies contribute their core competencies to the project.
Initial production will be distributed between GA-ASI’s facilities in California and Hanwha’s facilities in South Korea, allowing for knowledge transfer and the establishment of robust manufacturing processes. This approach is designed to expedite the ramp-up to full-scale production and support timely delivery to customers.
The partnership specifically targets a global customer base, with the U.S. Department of Defense and the South Korean Ministry of National Defense identified as primary clients. The first flight of a production-representative Gray Eagle STOL is scheduled for 2027, with initial deliveries planned for 2028.
Market Projections and Economic Implications
The global unmanned aircraft systems market is experiencing rapid growth, with projections estimating its value to reach 5 trillion KRW by 2040. GA-ASI has identified a potential demand for over 600 Gray Eagle STOL units within the next decade, which could translate into approximately 15 trillion won in revenue over that period.
Hanwha Aerospace has committed to investing more than 750 billion KRW in the development and production facilities for the GE STOL and its engines. Of this, 300 billion KRW will be sourced through a share offering, underlining the scale and seriousness of Hanwha’s commitment to the project.
Beyond direct financial returns, the partnership is anticipated to generate significant economic benefits for South Korea, including job creation, skills development, and the strengthening of the domestic UAS industry ecosystem. It also positions Hanwha as a key player in the global UAS supply chain.
“Hanwha Aerospace views unmanned systems as a strategic pillar for the future of defense. Through our collaboration with GA-ASI, we aim to strengthen sovereign defense capabilities, expand Korea’s presence in the global UAS market, and contribute to a more robust ROK-US alliance.”
— Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group
Operational and Strategic Benefits
The Gray Eagle STOL’s ability to operate from unimproved surfaces and naval vessels provides “unprecedented runway independence,” a feature that is increasingly valued in modern military operations where flexibility and rapid deployment are critical. This capability allows for distributed operations, reduced vulnerability to attacks on fixed bases, and enhanced support for expeditionary and maritime missions.
The partnership also reflects a broader trend in international defense cooperation, where joint development and production projects are leveraged to deepen alliances, share technological advancements, and enhance interoperability between allied forces. For both the U.S. and South Korea, this collaboration reinforces mutual defense commitments and supports shared strategic objectives in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond.
The successful 2024 demonstration of the Gray Eagle STOL from a South Korean naval vessel serves as a proof of concept for future multi-domain operations, highlighting the platform’s potential to reshape operational doctrines and expand the envelope of unmanned aviation.
Conclusion: Future Implications and Milestones to Watch
The GA-ASI and Hanwha Aerospace partnership to produce the Gray Eagle STOL UAS represents a strategic convergence of technological innovation, industrial collaboration, and international defense cooperation. By combining their respective strengths, the two companies are poised to deliver a platform that meets the evolving needs of military customers seeking greater operational flexibility and resilience.
As the project moves forward, the first flight in 2027 and subsequent deliveries will serve as key milestones, not only for the companies involved but also for the broader defense industry. The success of this initiative could pave the way for similar cross-border collaborations, further integrating global supply chains and advancing the capabilities of unmanned systems worldwide.
FAQ
What is the Gray Eagle STOL UAS?
The Gray Eagle STOL UAS is a medium-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft system designed for runway independence, capable of operating from semi-improved surfaces and naval vessels without specialized launch or recovery equipment.
Who are the main partners in this project?
The project is a joint effort between General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) of the United States and Hanwha Aerospace of South Korea.
When is the first flight and delivery of the Gray Eagle STOL planned?
The first production-representative flight is scheduled for 2027, with the first customer deliveries expected in 2028.
What are the expected economic benefits of the partnership?
The partnership is expected to create jobs, foster skills development, and strengthen the domestic UAS industry in South Korea, in addition to generating significant revenue from global sales.
How does this partnership affect international defense cooperation?
The agreement exemplifies a new phase of U.S.-South Korea defense cooperation, moving beyond traditional alliances to joint development and production, thereby enhancing interoperability and mutual defense capabilities.
Sources
Photo Credit: GA-ASI
Defense & Military
NexTech Solutions Acquires BOOMSLANG Aerospace for UAS Defense
NexTech Solutions acquires BOOMSLANG Aerospace, adding UAS and Counter-UAS tech including the MONGOOSE system to its DoD portfolio.
NexTech Solutions (NTS) has finalized the acquisition of BOOMSLANG Aerospace, integrating new Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-UAS (C-UAS) technologies into its defense-grade product portfolio to address emerging tactical airspace threats.
Announced on August 24, 2026, following a transaction close on August 7, 2026, the acquisition marks the fifth corporate purchase by NTS since receiving strategic backing from private equity firm Clairvest in 2023. According to the company’s press release, the move is designed to provide modular, mission-ready solutions for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies.
Integrating UAS and Counter-UAS capabilities
The acquisition brings BOOMSLANG’s proprietary hardware and software into the NTS ecosystem. Central to this integration is the MONGOOSE C-UAS system, alongside the broader BOOMSLANG UAS family of systems. These platforms will join existing NTS products such as MANTLE, VidTerra COMPASS, and JEFF-K to create a networked defense architecture.
NTS leadership emphasized the operational readiness of the newly acquired technology and its immediate applicability to current defense requirements.
“BOOMSLANG Aerospace has built exactly the kind of technology our customers are asking for: cutting-edge, mission-ready, and purpose-built for the current threat environment at the edge,” stated Joseph Paull, CEO of NexTech Solutions.
David Pollman, Director of Counter-UAS Operations at NTS, noted that BOOMSLANG’s approach aligns with the company’s strategy to build modular, requirements-driven C-UAS architectures for government clients.
Corporate growth and defense sector strategy
The BOOMSLANG acquisition reflects a sustained expansion strategy for NTS, which operates out of Tampa, Florida, and Northern Virginia, with the latest announcement originating from Huntsville, Alabama. The 2023 investment from Clairvest positioned NTS as a platform company for defense technology growth, facilitating five acquisitions over the subsequent three years.
BOOMSLANG Aerospace leadership indicated the merger will accelerate product deployment. Alan Cornett, President and Co-Founder of BOOMSLANG Aerospace, stated that the combined entity can move faster from concept to fielded capability for defense customers.
AirPro News analysis
We view this acquisition as a direct response to the rapidly evolving tactical requirements of the U.S. Department of Defense. The proliferation of inexpensive, commercially available drones in modern conflict zones has forced defense contractors to rapidly scale their C-UAS offerings. By acquiring an established player like BOOMSLANG rather than developing a system entirely in-house, NTS accelerates its time-to-market. The emphasis on modular and networked ecosystems suggests NTS is positioning itself to offer comprehensive, plug-and-play airspace awareness and defeat mechanisms rather than standalone hardware.
Sources: NexTech Solutions (via PR Newswire)
Photo Credit: Montage
Defense & Military
NSPA Issues RFP for NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Program
NSPA formally launches the NGRC Concept Design RFP, with four manufacturers competing for a six-nation helicopter replacement program.
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has formally issued a Request for Proposal for the Concept Design phase of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability program, advancing a six-nation effort to replace aging medium multi-role Helicopters fleets.
Announced in a press release on August 10, 2026, the procurement targets a service entry between 2035 and 2040. The NSPA is managing the process on behalf of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Four pre-qualified Manufacturers will compete in this phase: Airbus Helicopters, Leonardo Helicopters, The Boeing Company, and Sikorsky.
Advancing the concept design phase
The Request for Proposal (RFP) officially opened on July 31, 2026, and requires the four bidders to submit their concept design proposals by August 31, 2027, at 12:00 Paris Time. Under the procurement guidelines, each manufacturer can propose a maximum of two concept design solutions.
Maxime Martinez, Principal Procurement Officer for the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Programme at NSPA, confirmed the launch of the new phase.
I am pleased to announce that the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has launched the next phase of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) Programme: a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified bidders linked to the competition for the Concept Design phase of NGRC.
The NSPA is utilizing a procurement mechanism called Acquisition by Qualified Options. This framework allows the participating nations to evaluate digital trials within an in-house modeling and simulation environment before committing to physical prototypes. The agency plans to complete the bid evaluation process by the end of 2027, at which point it will deliver an evaluation summary report to the participating nations.
Industry positioning and proposals
The four pre-qualified bidders, selected following a Pre-Qualification Assessment that closed in October 2025, have already begun positioning their offerings for the multi-national replacement program.
In February 2026, Airbus Helicopters revealed two distinct concepts for the NGRC study. The European manufacturer is developing both a high-performance conventional helicopter and a high-speed compound rotorcraft that leverages technology from its Racer demonstrator program. Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, announced in July 2026 that it would establish helicopter production facilities in Europe if the partner nations select its proposal.
The NSPA is encouraging broader industry participation through the primary bidders rather than direct submissions. Martinez stated that potential suppliers, technology providers, and industrial partners should engage directly with Airbus Helicopters, The Boeing Company, Leonardo Helicopters, or Sikorsky to contribute to the program.
AirPro News analysis
We view the NSPA decision to utilize the Acquisition by Qualified Options mechanism as a critical step in mitigating the technical and financial risks historically associated with clean-sheet rotorcraft development. By mandating digital trials in a simulated environment before advancing to physical prototypes, the participating nations can rigorously evaluate the aerodynamic and operational viability of complex designs, such as the compound concept proposed by Airbus Helicopters.
Sikorsky’s preemptive commitment to European production highlights the intense political and economic stakes of the NGRC program. With five European nations and Canada funding the development, North American bidders like Sikorsky and The Boeing Company will likely need to guarantee substantial industrial offsets and local manufacturing to remain competitive against indigenous European prime contractors like Airbus and Leonardo. The requirement for up to two concepts per bidder also provides the NSPA with a broad spectrum of conventional and advanced high-speed rotorcraft options to evaluate against the harmonized operational baseline.
Photo Credit: Airbus
Defense & Military
HAL and Safran Sign Aravalli Engine Co-Development Contract
HAL and Safran finalize the Aravalli engine contract via SAFHAL JV to power India’s IMRH and DBMRH helicopters by 2032-2033.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Safran Helicopter Engines have finalized a contract to co-develop the new-generation Aravalli engine, marking a definitive shift in Indian aerospace manufacturing from licensed production to indigenous propulsion design.
The agreement, signed on August 26, 2026, in Bengaluru, India, formalizes the design, development, manufacture, and lifecycle support of the engine through SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. SAFHAL is a 50:50 joint venture between the two aerospace manufacturers. The Aravalli engine is slated to power India’s future 13-ton Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval variant, the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH).
Technical specifications and manufacturing
The Aravalli engine will operate in the 3,500 to 4,000 shaft horsepower (shp) class. Under the terms of the agreement, HAL will gain access to core engine technologies, including the high-pressure compressor, power turbine, and accessory gearbox. This technology transfer is designed to build domestic intellectual property and expertise in high-power engine design.
Manufacturing operations for the Aravalli program will be based at HAL’s facility in Tumakuru, Karnataka. Safran Helicopter Engines Chief Executive Officer Cédric Goubet noted the precedent set by the agreement in a press release issued by HAL.
“This is the first time Safran HE has taken up such a class of engine as co-development. The Aravalli engine programme represents a new chapter in the strategic relationship between France and India, combining the expertise of our teams to develop propulsion systems for future Indian rotorcraft.”
Development timeline and strategic shift
The final contract follows a multi-year negotiation and planning phase. HAL and Safran initially signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the project in July 2022, followed by detailed workshare discussions at Aero India in February 2023. The companies executed an airframer contract on August 30, 2024, to commence joint design work.
The design and development phase is targeted for completion between 2032 and 2033. Once operational, the IMRH platform is intended to replace the Indian Air Force’s aging fleet of Mil Mi-17 Helicopters. HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi K emphasized the domestic industrial impact of the program.
“The signing of this contract marks a significant step forward in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in aero-engine technologies. Through this collaborative programme with SAFHAL and Safran Helicopter Engines, we are creating a strong foundation for powering next-generation Indian helicopter platforms.”
AirPro News analysis
The Aravalli engine contract represents a critical maturation point for India’s defense aviation sector. Historically, Indian aerospace manufacturing has relied heavily on licensed production of foreign designs, which limits domestic engineering capability and intellectual property ownership. By securing a 50:50 co-development structure that includes core engine components like the high-pressure compressor and power turbine, we view this agreement as a foundational step toward true Propulsion independence for the Indian military. If the 2032 to 2033 development timeline holds, HAL will be positioned not just as an assembler, but as a primary original equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for high-power rotorcraft engines.
Sources: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Photo Credit: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
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