South Korea and Embraer Sign MOU to Expand Aerospace Partnership

South Korea and Embraer Forge Deeper Ties with New Aerospace MOU

In a strategic move to bolster its global aerospace and defense footprint, South Korea has formalized a new partnership with a major player in the aviation world. The nation’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer. This agreement isn’t just a handshake; it’s a calculated step designed to weave South Korean industrial capabilities into the fabric of Embraer’s global supply network, signaling a new chapter of international collaboration.

The partnership is built on a foundation of growing trust and mutual interest, solidified by South Korea’s decision in 2023 to acquire Embraer’s C-390 Millennium transport aircraft for its Large Transport Aircraft (LTA) II program. This selection was a significant win for Embraer, marking the C-390’s first entry into the competitive Asian market. The latest MOU aims to capitalize on this momentum, expanding the scope of cooperation far beyond a simple procurement deal and setting the stage for a more integrated, long-term industrial relationship.

The Framework of the New Agreement

The official signing of the memorandum took place on Monday, October 20, 2025, at a prominent industry event, the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025. This venue underscored the public and strategic importance of the deal. The core objective of the MOU is twofold: first, to actively increase the number of South Korean parts suppliers integrated into Embraer’s extensive global supply chain, and second, to create pathways for Embraer to contribute to domestic defense projects within South Korea. It’s a symbiotic arrangement aimed at leveraging each party’s strengths.

This agreement is the culmination of dedicated groundwork. Just a month prior, from September 17-19, 2025, the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) and Embraer co-hosted a “partnering week.” During this event, Embraer representatives toured key aerospace hubs in Sacheon and Busan, meeting directly with around 30 potential South Korean partner companies. These weren’t superficial meet-and-greets; they were in-depth consultations to vet capabilities and align on future collaboration, laying a practical foundation for the MOU that followed.

The discussions during the “partnering week” revealed the ambitious scope of this collaboration. While the immediate focus is on supplying parts for existing aircraft like the C-390, the dialogue has already expanded into next-generation technologies. Both sides are exploring joint efforts in cutting-edge fields such as Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and the development of carbon-neutral aviation technology using Hydrogen fuel. This forward-looking approach indicates that the Partnerships is not just about fulfilling current needs but also about co-creating the future of aerospace.

“This event was an opportunity for our aerospace companies to directly explore cooperation opportunities with the world’s third-largest aircraft manufacturer. We will actively support export diversification by cooperating with key companies in the Global South as well as the U.S. and Europe.”, Kim Myung-hee, KOTRA’s Vice President and Head of the Innovation Growth Headquarters (September 2025)

Building on a Solid Foundation

The October 2025 MOU did not emerge from a vacuum. It represents a deliberate and progressive strengthening of ties that began years earlier. A pivotal moment was the Republic of Korea Air Force’s (ROKAF) selection of the Embraer C-390 Millennium in 2023. This multi-mission aircraft was chosen for its modern capabilities, and the deal was structured to include a substantial Industrial Cooperation Program. This component mandated that major parts of the aircraft would be manufactured by South Korean partners, ensuring that the procurement directly benefited local industry from the outset.

Even before the C-390 selection was finalized, Embraer was actively cultivating relationships with South Korean firms. In October 2022, the Brazilian company signed initial MOUs with three key aerospace companies: Aerospace Technology of Global (ASTG), EM Korea (EMK), and Kencoa Aerospace. These preliminary agreements were specifically aimed at the future supply of parts for the C-390, demonstrating Embraer’s long-term commitment to integrating local partners as part of its bid for the LTA II program.

Embraer, founded in 1969, brings over five decades of aviation expertise to the table. As the world’s third-largest aircraft Manufacturers, it has delivered over 9,000 aircraft and is a leader in the commercial jet market for aircraft with fewer than 150 seats. This partnership provides South Korean companies with a valuable opportunity to align with a global leader, gain access to new markets, and elevate their manufacturing and technological standards to meet the rigorous demands of the international aerospace industry.

“By offering more than 50 years of experience in aviation, technology and innovation, Embraer is looking to establish meaningful partnerships in South Korea to create new businesses and solutions.”, Jackson Schneider, President & CEO, Embraer Defense & Security (October 2022)

Conclusion: A Strategic Ascent for Global Aerospace

The memorandum of understanding between South Korea’s DAPA and Embraer is more than a procedural document; it is a strategic blueprint for mutual growth. For South Korea, it represents a significant step in its ambition to become a more influential player in the global defense and aerospace supply chain. By embedding its companies within Embraer’s network, the nation’s industry gains resilience, technological know-how, and a diversified export portfolio. This collaboration moves beyond a simple buyer-seller dynamic into a more integrated partnership focused on co-production and co-development.

Looking ahead, the implications of this partnership extend into the next generation of aviation. The joint exploration of Urban Air Mobility and green technologies like hydrogen-based fuel systems positions both South Korea and Embraer at the forefront of aerospace innovation. This collaboration is set to not only enhance military transport capabilities but also to drive progress in sustainable and future-oriented aviation solutions, ensuring both partners remain competitive and relevant in a rapidly evolving industry.

FAQ

Question: What is the main purpose of the MOU between South Korea and Embraer?
Answer: The primary goals are to integrate more South Korean companies into Embraer’s global supply chain and to explore opportunities for Embraer to participate in South Korea’s domestic defense projects.

Question: Which aircraft is central to this partnership?
Answer: The Embraer C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft is central to the partnership. South Korea selected it for its Large Transport Aircraft (LTA) II program in 2023.

Question: Are there plans for cooperation beyond the C-390 aircraft?
Answer: Yes, discussions have already expanded to include next-generation cooperation in areas like Urban Air Mobility (UAM) and carbon-neutral technology based on hydrogen fuel.

Sources: The Korea Herald