Defense & Military
Hanwha and GA-ASI Partner to Develop Next Gen Gray Eagle STOL UAS
Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI join forces to co-develop the Gray Eagle STOL UAS, enhancing runway-independent defense capabilities by 2027.
In a significant move that reshapes the landscape of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace and U.S. defense giant General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) have formalized a strategic Partnerships. The agreement, signed during the Association of the U.S. Army’s 2025 Annual Meeting and Exposition (AUSA 2025), solidifies their commitment to co-develop and co-produce a next-generation, runway-independent UAS. This collaboration marks a pivotal evolution in the U.S.-South Korea alliance, transitioning from a traditional customer-supplier relationship to one of joint innovation and production in the high-stakes defense sector.
The core of this venture is the development of the Gray Eagle Short Takeoff and Landing (GE-STOL) aircraft. This isn’t just another Drones; it represents a technological leap forward designed to operate in environments where traditional airfields are unavailable or compromised. The ability to launch and land from semi-improved surfaces like dirt roads, open fields, or even naval vessels dramatically expands its operational flexibility. This partnership aims to harness the strengths of both companies to deliver a versatile and powerful asset for modern defense forces, with co-production planned in both South Korea and the United States.
This collaboration is not merely about building a new piece of hardware. It’s a strategic initiative with far-reaching implications for the global defense market, industrial ecosystems in both nations, and the future of unmanned warfare. By pooling resources and expertise, Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI are not only accelerating the development of the GE-STOL but also setting a new standard for international defense cooperation. The project is poised to create jobs, foster technological advancement, and strengthen the strategic ties between two key allies.
The agreement between Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI is built on a foundation of shared responsibilities and mutual Investments. It outlines a clear path forward for bringing the advanced GE-STOL system from concept to reality, leveraging the unique capabilities of each partner to create a product that is greater than the sum of its parts. This joint venture is a testament to a forward-thinking approach to defense manufacturing and international security.
Under the terms of the contract, the division of labor is clearly defined to maximize efficiency and expertise. GA-ASI, a world leader in unmanned aircraft, will be responsible for the final system integration, ensuring all components work together seamlessly to meet rigorous performance standards. Their deep experience with the Gray Eagle platform provides a solid foundation for this next-generation variant.
Hanwha Aerospace will contribute its extensive Manufacturing and technological prowess by supplying a range of critical components. These include the aircraft’s engines, landing gear, fuel systems, Avionics, and mission equipment. Furthermore, Hanwha is set to establish a final assembly and manufacturing facility in South Korea, a move that will not only build domestic industrial capability but also streamline the production process for regional and global markets.
This synergy is designed to de-risk the development process and expedite the delivery of the UAS. A GA-ASI-funded prototype is already undergoing flight testing, which provides valuable data and reduces the lead time for producing an operational aircraft. This proactive approach underscores the commitment of both companies to bring this advanced capability to the field as quickly as possible.
“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 of GA-ASI
The partnership extends beyond the battlefield, promising significant economic and industrial benefits for both South Korea and the United States. The establishment of co-production facilities is expected to generate new jobs and stimulate economic growth in the defense and aerospace sectors of both countries. For South Korea, it represents a major step in fostering a robust domestic UAS industry ecosystem. Hanwha Aerospace has committed to a substantial financial investment to realize this vision, planning to invest more than 750 billion KRW in development and production facilities for the GE-STOL and its engines. This investment signals a long-term commitment to the unmanned systems market, which Hanwha projects will reach a global value of 5 trillion KRW by 2040. The company aims to position itself as a comprehensive UAS provider, capable of handling everything from design and production to maintenance.
This strategic alignment is championed at the highest levels of Hanwha Group. As Vice Chairman Dong Kwan Kim stated, unmanned systems are viewed as a “strategic pillar for the future of defense.” The collaboration with GA-ASI is seen as a vehicle to strengthen sovereign defense capabilities, expand Korea’s footprint in the global UAS market, and ultimately contribute to a more resilient ROK-US alliance.
The Gray Eagle Short Takeoff and Landing (GE-STOL) system is engineered to overcome one of the most significant logistical challenges in modern military operations: the reliance on prepared runways. Its design as a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAS provides persistent surveillance and strike capabilities, while its STOL functionality unlocks a new level of operational freedom.
The defining feature of the GE-STOL is its ability to operate without traditional airfields. This capability allows it to be deployed from a wide variety of semi-prepared surfaces, including dirt roads, beaches, and compact fields. This drastically reduces the logistical footprint required for aerial operations and enables forces to project power in austere or contested environments where infrastructure is limited or has been destroyed.
This flexibility has already been put to the test in a series of successful demonstrations. In a landmark event in November 2024, a prototype of the aircraft, known as Mojave, successfully conducted flight operations from the South Korean Navy’s amphibious landing ship, the ROKS Dokdo. This test highlighted the system’s immense potential for maritime and amphibious missions. Additional trials have included operations from the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (2023), live-fire testing in Arizona (2024), and successful takeoffs and landings from dirt strips (2023).
The GE-STOL is designed as a multi-mission platform, capable of performing a wide array of tasks. These include Reconnaissance, Surveillance, and Target Acquisition (RSTA), counter-UAS operations, and Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), where it can operate in concert with manned aircraft to enhance situational awareness and mission effectiveness.
“Co-producing GE-STOL in South Korea and the U.S. will create jobs and help Hanwha secure capability in related fields as well as foster our domestic (Korean) UAS industry ecosystem,” Jae-il Son, President and CEO of Hanwha Aerospace
The development timeline for the GE-STOL is ambitious, reflecting the urgency and commitment behind the project. The partnership is targeting a Maiden-Flight for a demonstrator aircraft in 2027. This rapid schedule is made possible by leveraging the progress already made on GA-ASI’s internally funded prototype, which has significantly reduced initial development risks.
Following a successful demonstration phase, the program aims to begin initial customer deliveries as early as 2028. This accelerated timeline means that armed forces could see this next-generation capability in the field in the near future, providing a timely response to evolving security challenges. The co-production model is expected to further streamline manufacturing and ensure a steady supply chain to meet global demand. By combining Hanwha’s manufacturing excellence with GA-ASI’s proven systems integration expertise, the partnership is well-positioned to meet these aggressive targets. The GE-STOL program is not just an idea on a drawing board; it is an active, well-resourced development effort on a clear path to becoming a key asset in the arsenal of modern militaries.
The partnership between Hanwha Aerospace and GA-ASI to develop the GE-STOL is more than a simple business agreement; it is a strategic convergence of technology, industry, and national security interests. It represents a forward-looking model for international defense cooperation, moving beyond transactional relationships to create a truly integrated team focused on innovation. The runway-independent capability of the GE-STOL addresses a critical operational need, promising to enhance the effectiveness and reach of military forces around the world.
Looking ahead, this collaboration is set to have a lasting impact. It will bolster the industrial bases of both South Korea and the United States, create high-tech jobs, and foster a new generation of engineering talent. For the U.S.-ROK alliance, it signifies a deeper, more resilient partnership built on shared technological advancement. As the GE-STOL moves toward its 2027 maiden flight, the world will be watching a new chapter in unmanned aviation unfold, one defined by flexibility, power, and unprecedented international cooperation.
Question: What is the GE-STOL? Question: Who are the main partners in this project? Question: When is the GE-STOL expected to be available?
Forging the Future of Aerial Defense: Hanwha and GA-ASI’s Landmark UAS Partnership
A Strategic Alliance for a New Generation of Defense
Defining the Roles and Responsibilities
Economic Impact and Industrial Vision
Unpacking the GE-STOL: A Technological Leap in Unmanned Aviation
The Game-Changer: Runway Independence
An Accelerated Path to Deployment
Conclusion: A New Horizon for Defense Collaboration
FAQ
Answer: The Gray Eagle Short Takeoff and Landing (GE-STOL) is a next-generation, medium-altitude, long-endurance Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) designed to operate from semi-improved surfaces without the need for traditional runways.
Answer: The project is a co-development and co-production partnership between South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace and U.S.-based General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI).
Answer: The maiden flight of a demonstrator aircraft is planned for 2027, with the goal of beginning initial customer deliveries in 2028.
Sources
Photo Credit: Hanwha Aerospace
Defense & Military
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Helicopters After Fatal Crash
South Korea suspends AH-1S Cobra helicopter operations following a fatal training crash amid delays in fleet replacement.
This article summarizes reporting by South China Morning Post and official statements from the South Korean military.
The South Korean military has ordered an immediate suspension of all AH-1S Cobra helicopters operations following a fatal accident on Monday morning. According to reporting by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the crash occurred in Gapyeong and resulted in the deaths of two crew members. The grounding order remains in effect pending a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the incident.
The tragedy has renewed scrutiny over the Republic of Korea Army’s aging fleet of attack helicopters, many of which have surpassed their original intended service life. Military officials confirmed that the aircraft involved was conducting training maneuvers at the time of the accident.
The crash took place at approximately 11:04 AM KST on February 9, 2026. The aircraft, an AH-1S Cobra operated by the Army’s 15th Aviation Group, went down on a riverbank in Gapyeong County, located roughly 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul.
According to military briefings, the two crew members on board, both Warrant Officers, were recovered from the wreckage in cardiac arrest. They were transported to a nearby hospital but were subsequently pronounced dead.
Preliminary reports indicate the crew was engaged in “emergency landing procedures.” In rotorcraft aviation, this typically refers to autorotation training, a high-risk maneuver where pilots simulate engine failure to glide the helicopter safely to the ground using the energy stored in the spinning rotors. While standard for pilot certification, autorotation requires precise handling, particularly during the final “flare” phase near the ground.
The AH-1S Cobra has been a staple of South Korea’s anti-tank capabilities since its introduction between 1988 and 1991. However, the fleet is widely considered obsolete by modern standards. Estimates suggest the Army still operates between 55 and 70 of these airframes.
According to defense procurement plans previously released by the government, the AH-1S fleet was scheduled for retirement by 2024. The continued operation of these helicopters in 2026 points to significant delays in the full deployment of replacement platforms, specifically the AH-64E Apache Guardian and the domestically produced KAI LAH (Light Armed Helicopter). This is not the first time the aging Cobra fleet has faced safety questions. In August 2018, the fleet was grounded after a catastrophic mechanical failure in Yongin. During that incident, a main rotor blade separated from the fuselage during takeoff, leading to a crash landing. That failure was later attributed to a defect in the rotor strap assembly, highlighting the structural fatigue inherent in airframes that have been in service for nearly four decades.
The Risks of Legacy Training Modernization Pressure
South Korea Grounds AH-1S Cobra Fleet Following Fatal Training Crash
Incident Details and Casualties
Fleet Status and Delayed Retirement
Previous Safety Concerns
AirPro News Analysis
The crash in Gapyeong underscores a critical dilemma facing modernizing militaries: the necessity of training on “high-risk” airframes while awaiting delayed replacements. Autorotation training is inherently dangerous even in modern aircraft; performing these stress-inducing maneuvers on helicopters approaching 40 years of service compounds the risk profile significantly.
We anticipate this incident will accelerate political pressure on the Ministry of National Defense to expedite the retirement of the remaining AH-1S Cobras. While South Korea has become a major exporter of advanced defense hardware, such as the K2 tank and FA-50 light combat aircraft, the domestic reliance on Vietnam-era derivative helicopters creates a stark capability gap. The tragedy may force the military to prioritize the delivery of the KAI LAH to prevent further loss of life among aircrews operating obsolete equipment.
Sources
Photo Credit: Reuters
Defense & Military
Grid Aero Raises $20M to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift
Grid Aero secures $20M Series A funding to develop the “Lifter-Lite,” a long-range autonomous aircraft for military logistics in the Indo-Pacific.
This article is based on an official press release from Grid Aero.
Grid Aero, a California-based aerospace Startups, announced on January 26, 2026, that it has raised $20 million in Series A funding. The round was led by Bison Ventures and Geodesic Capital, with participation from Stony Lonesome Group, Alumni Ventures, Ubiquity Ventures, Calibrate Ventures, and Commonweal Ventures. The capital will be used to transition the company’s “Lifter-Lite” autonomous aircraft from prototype to a fielded platform, specifically targeting military logistics challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Unlike many entrants in the autonomous aviation sector that focus on electric propulsion, Grid Aero has developed a clean-sheet, conventional-fuel aircraft designed to address the “tyranny of distance.” By utilizing standard Jet-A fuel and a rugged fixed-wing design, the company aims to provide a heavy-lift solution capable of operating without traditional runway infrastructure.
According to the company’s announcement, the flagship “Lifter-Lite” aircraft prioritizes range and payload capacity over novel propulsion methods. The system is engineered to carry between 1,000 and 8,000 pounds of cargo, with a maximum range of up to 2,000 miles. This range capability allows for trans-oceanic flights, such as routes from Guam to Japan, which are critical for Pacific theater operations.
The aircraft utilizes a conventional turboprop engine, a strategic choice intended to ensure compatibility with existing military fuel supply chains. The design features Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities, enabling operations from dirt strips, highways, or damaged runways where standard cargo planes cannot land.
Grid Aero was founded in 2024 by CEO Arthur Dubois and CTO Chinmay Patel. Dubois previously served as Director of Engineering at Xwing and was an early engineer at Joby Aviation. Patel, who holds a PhD in Aeronautics and Astronautics from Stanford, brings experience from Zee Aero (Kitty Hawk). The leadership team emphasizes a shift away from the “electric hype” of the urban air mobility sector toward pragmatic, physics-based solutions for defense logistics.
“We are building the pickup truck of the skies, a rugged, affordable, and autonomous logistics network capable of operating in austere environments.”
, Grid Aero Mission Statement
The Investments from Geodesic Capital, a firm known for fostering U.S.-Japan collaboration, highlights the strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific. The Department of Defense (DoD) has identified logistics as a primary vulnerability in potential conflicts where traditional supply lines may be contested. Grid Aero positions its technology as an “attritable” asset, low-cost, unmanned systems that can be deployed in volume without risking human crews. The Shift to Pragmatic Propulsion
While the broader autonomous aviation market has largely chased the promise of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) technologies, Grid Aero’s successful Series A raise signals a growing investor appetite for pragmatic, mission-specific engineering. Electric propulsion currently struggles with energy density, limiting most eVTOLs to ranges under 200 miles, insufficient for the vast distances of the Pacific.
By opting for a conventional turboprop engine, Grid Aero bypasses the battery bottleneck entirely. This decision allows the “Lifter-Lite” to integrate immediately into existing defense infrastructure (using Jet-A fuel) while offering ranges that are an order of magnitude higher than its electric competitors. For military buyers, the ability to repair an aluminum airframe in the field is often more valuable than the theoretical efficiency of composite electric platforms.
What is the primary use case for Grid Aero’s aircraft?
The aircraft is designed for “contested logistics,” delivering heavy cargo (1,000–8,000 lbs) over long ranges (up to 2,000 miles) to areas without standard runways, such as islands or forward operating bases.
Why does Grid Aero use conventional fuel instead of electric power?
Conventional Jet-A fuel offers significantly higher energy density than current battery technology, enabling the long ranges required for operations in the Pacific. It also ensures compatibility with existing military logistics chains.
Who are the lead investors in this round? The Series A round was led by Bison Ventures, a deep-tech VC firm, and Geodesic Capital, which specializes in U.S.-Japan expansion and security collaboration.
Is the aircraft fully autonomous?
Yes, the system is designed for fully autonomous flight operations, allowing for “fleet-scale” management where a single operator can oversee multiple aircraft simultaneously.
Grid Aero Secures $20M Series A to Deploy Long-Range Autonomous Airlift for Contested Logistics
The “Lifter-Lite” Platform: Capabilities and Design
Leadership and Engineering Pedigree
Strategic Context: Addressing Contested Logistics
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
Photo Credit: Grid Aero
Defense & Military
Apogee Aerospace Signs $420M Deal for Albatross Amphibious Aircraft
Apogee Aerospace partners with Australia’s AAI to purchase 15 Albatross 2.0 amphibious planes and invest in India’s seaplane infrastructure.
This article summarizes reporting by The Economic Times.
In a significant development for India’s regional and maritime aviation sectors, Apogee Aerospace Pvt Ltd has signed a definitive agreement with Australia’s Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI). According to reporting by The Economic Times, the deal, finalized on February 5, 2026, is valued at approximately Rs 3,500 crore ($420 million) and involves the purchase of 15 Albatross 2.0 amphibian aircraft.
The partnership extends beyond a simple acquisition. Reports indicate that Apogee Aerospace will invest an additional Rs 500 crore ($60 million) to develop a domestic ecosystem for seaplanes in India. This infrastructure commitment includes a final assembly line, a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, and a pilot training center. The move appears strategically timed to align with the Indian Navy’s recent interest in acquiring amphibious capabilities.
The agreement outlines a comprehensive collaboration between the Indian entity and the Darwin-based manufacturer. As detailed in the report, Apogee Aerospace, a special purpose vehicle of the deep-tech defense firm Apogee C4i LLP, has secured 15 units of the G-111T Albatross. This modernized aircraft is a “revival” of the Grumman HU-16, a platform historically utilized for open-ocean rescue missions.
To cement the partnership, Apogee has reportedly invested $7 million (Rs 65 crore) directly into AAI’s parent company, Amphibian Aircraft Holdings. This equity stake grants the Indian firm a long-term interest in the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). According to the timeline provided in the reporting, the first aircraft is expected to enter the Indian market within 18 to 24 months, with a demonstration aircraft likely arriving within six months.
A central component of the deal is the focus on “Make in India” initiatives. The Rs 500 crore investment is designated for establishing local capabilities that would allow Apogee to service the fleet domestically. This aligns with the Indian government’s Union Budget 2026-27, which explicitly offered incentives for indigenous seaplane manufacturing and viability gap funding for operators.
The aircraft at the center of this procurement is the Albatross 2.0, also known as the G-111T. While based on a legacy airframe, the new variants are being rebuilt in Darwin with significant modernizations. The Economic Times notes that AAI holds the type certificate for the aircraft, which is the only FAA and EASA-certified transport-category amphibian in its class.
Key upgrades to the platform include: The timing of this commercial agreement coincides with a major defense procurement opportunity. On January 10–12, 2026, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking to wet-lease four amphibious aircraft for the Indian Navy. The Navy requires these assets for SAR operations, island logistics in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep archipelagos, and maritime surveillance.
Industry observers suggest that the Apogee-AAI partnership intends to bid for this contract against established global competitors, most notably Japan’s ShinMaywa. The ShinMaywa US-2 has been evaluated by the Indian Navy for over a decade, but high unit costs, estimated at over $110 million per aircraft, have historically stalled acquisition efforts. In contrast, the Albatross 2.0 is positioned as a cost-effective alternative, with a claimed unit cost significantly lower than its Japanese competitor.
We view this deal as a calculated gamble by Apogee Aerospace to disrupt a defense procurement process that has been stagnant for years. By securing a commercial order and investing in local MRO, Apogee is likely attempting to present a “sovereign industrial capability” argument to the Ministry of Defence. This approach addresses two critical pain points for Indian defense planners: cost and indigenization.
However, risks remain. While the ShinMaywa US-2 is a proven, currently operational platform with extreme rough-sea capabilities, the Albatross 2.0 is effectively a remanufactured legacy aircraft from a company that is still ramping up production. The Indian Navy’s RFI calls for an immediate wet-lease solution. Whether AAI can meet the operational readiness requirements with a production line that is still maturing will be the key factor in the upcoming bid evaluation. The promise of a demo aircraft in six months will be the first real test of this partnership’s viability.
Sources: The Economic Times
Apogee Aerospace Signs $420M Deal for Albatross Amphibious Aircraft
Deal Structure and Investment Details
Domestic Manufacturing and MRO
The Albatross 2.0 (G-111T) Platform
Strategic Context: The Indian Navy Bid
AirPro News Analysis
Sources
Photo Credit: AAI
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