Partnerships in Flight: GE Aerospace and South Korea Deepen 60-Year Alliance

For over six decades, the relationship between South Korea and GE Aerospace has served as a cornerstone of the nation’s defense capabilities. What began in the 1950s with the supply of engines for F-86 Sabres has evolved into a sophisticated industrial partnership that underpins South Korea’s rapid ascent as a global aerospace powerhouse. According to a December 2025 release from GE Aerospace, this collaboration has now expanded beyond aviation into naval propulsion, signaling a new era of technological integration.

As of late 2025, South Korea operates the largest fleet of GE military engines outside the United States, with more than 1,500 engines currently in service. This massive install base supports a wide array of platforms, from the indigenous KUH-1 Surion helicopter to the advanced KF-21 Boramae fighter. The partnership, primarily executed through local industry leader Hanwha Aerospace, has shifted from a traditional vendor-client model to a strategic co-development framework, essential for Seoul’s ambitions to secure technological sovereignty.

From Assembly to Strategic Autonomy

The trajectory of South Korea’s aerospace industry is defined by its transition from importing hardware to licensing production and, ultimately, developing indigenous systems. GE Aerospace highlights that its collaboration with Hanwha Aerospace is central to this strategy. Hanwha, the nation’s primary gas turbine engine specialist, licenses and produces GE engines domestically, ensuring supply chain security and technical knowledge transfer.

Key pillars of this ongoing collaboration include:

• The KF-21 Boramae: South Korea’s flagship 4.5-generation fighter, now in initial mass production, is powered by two F414-GE-400K engines. These engines are assembled locally by Hanwha, providing the thrust necessary for the aircraft to compete in the global export market against established rivals.
• The T-50 Golden Eagle: A highly successful trainer and light combat aircraft powered by the F404 engine. The platform has seen significant export success, further integrating the GE-Hanwha supply chain into global defense markets.
• The KUH-1 Surion: Korea’s indigenous utility Helicopters utilizes the T700 turboshaft engine, a staple of the partnership’s rotorcraft segment.

In October 2025, Hanwha Aerospace secured a new contract for additional T700 and F404 engine kits to support continued production of the Surion and T-50, reaffirming the longevity of these programs.

Expanding Horizons: The Naval Propulsion Deal

While aviation remains the primary focus, the partnership recently expanded into the maritime domain. During the Seoul ADEX 2025 in October, GE Aerospace and Hanwha Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly develop marine gas turbine packages.

According to the company’s statement, this agreement aims to adapt GE’s gas turbine technology for South Korea’s next-generation naval destroyers. This move leverages Hanwha’s manufacturing capabilities to localize naval propulsion systems, mirroring the successful model used in the aviation sector.

“The partnership has evolved from simple hardware supply to deep technological collaboration.”

, GE Aerospace Press Release

Commercial Aviation and Fleet Modernization

Beyond the defense sector, the Commercial-Aircraft landscape in South Korea is also undergoing significant modernization. Korean Air, a key industrial partner, solidified plans in 2025 to introduce Boeing 777-9 and 787-10 aircraft to its fleet. These next-generation widebodies are powered by GE9X and GEnx engines, respectively.

Furthermore, Korean Air has adopted GE Aerospace’s “Safety Insight” flight data monitoring system. This technology utilizes advanced analytics to enhance operational safety across the carrier’s fleet, demonstrating that the collaboration extends into software and safety management systems as well as hardware.

AirPro News Analysis: The Drive for Independence

While the “Partners in Flight” narrative celebrates a robust alliance, AirPro News notes that South Korea’s long-term strategic goal remains total technological independence. The current relationship with GE Aerospace can be viewed as a vital bridge toward that future.

The South Korean government, through the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), has announced a roadmap to develop a completely indigenous turbofan engine for fighter jets by the late 2030s. This project, led by Hanwha Aerospace, aims to produce a 15,000 lb-thrust class engine. Achieving this would allow South Korea to export fighter jets without being subject to foreign export control restrictions (such as U.S. ITAR regulations), which currently govern platforms using GE engines.

Additionally, the establishment of the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) in 2024 and the “Space Economy” vision, backed by a projected $70 billion investment by 2045, underscores Seoul’s intent to become a top-5 global space power. Hanwha Aerospace’s designation as the system integrator for the KSLV-III launch vehicle further cements its role as the “SpaceX of Korea,” moving the industry gradually away from reliance on international partners for core technologies.

For now, however, the symbiosis is mutually beneficial: GE Aerospace secures a dominant position in a growing market, while South Korea gains the reliable, high-performance propulsion systems needed to fuel its rapid ascent as a premier arms exporter.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary engine used in the KF-21 fighter?

The KF-21 Boramae is powered by two F414-GE-400K engines, which are assembled locally in South Korea by Hanwha Aerospace.

How large is GE Aerospace’s footprint in South Korea?

South Korea operates the largest fleet of GE military engines outside of the United States, with over 1,500 engines in service across various platforms.

What is the goal of the recent Naval MoU?

Signed in October 2025, the MoU between GE Aerospace and Hanwha Aerospace focuses on the joint development of marine gas turbine packages for South Korean naval vessels.

Sources

• GE Aerospace
• Hanwha Aerospace
• DAPA

This article is based on an official press release from Embraer.

Embraer Delivers First NATO-Configured A-29N Super Tucanos to Portugal; Eyes New Assembly Line

On December 17, 2025, Embraer officially delivered the first five A-29N Super Tucano aircraft to the Portuguese Air Force (Força Aérea Portuguesa, FAP). The handover ceremony took place at the facilities of OGMA (Indústria Aeronáutica de Portugal) in Alverca, marking a significant milestone for the Brazilian aerospace manufacturer as it introduces the NATO-specific “N” variant to the European market.

Alongside the delivery, Embraer and the Portuguese government signed a Letter of Interest (LOI) to explore establishing a final assembly line for the A-29N in Portugal. According to the company, this potential facility would serve as a strategic hub to meet growing demand for the aircraft across Europe.

Rapid Delivery and Strategic Partnership

The delivery of these five aircraft comes just one year and one day after the contract was signed in December 2024. The total order encompasses 12 aircraft with a reported value of approximately €200 million. Embraer noted that the remaining aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the coming years, with Full Operational Capability (FOC) expected by 2027.

The event underscores the deepening industrial ties between Brazil and Portugal. OGMA, which is 65% owned by Embraer, will handle the logistical support, maintenance, and modernization of the fleet. The facility in Alverca already serves as a central hub for Embraer’s KC-390 Millennium transport aircraft program.

In a statement regarding the aircraft’s capabilities, Nuno Melo, Minister of National Defense of Portugal, highlighted the versatility of the new fleet:

“We are not only introducing a new air attack capability… but also addressing potential new scenarios. The Super Tucano now offers the possibility of performing anti-drone missions, demonstrating the flexibility of the aircraft chosen by the Air Force.”

The A-29N: Tailored for NATO Operations

The “N” variant delivered to Portugal represents a specific evolution of the Super Tucano platform designed to meet the interoperability requirements of NATO member states. While the standard Super Tucano is renowned for counter-insurgency and light attack roles, the A-29N includes upgrades essential for the European theater.

Key features of the A-29N configuration include:

• NATO Datalink: Integrated tactical systems allowing seamless communication with other NATO assets.
• Single-Pilot Operation: Modifications to allow effective mission execution by a single pilot, a requirement for several European air forces.
• Advanced Training: Optimization for Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training, utilizing virtual and augmented reality simulations.
• Counter-UAS (C-UAS): Enhanced sensors and precision munitions capabilities to detect and neutralize hostile drones.

Potential European Assembly Line

A major component of the announcement was the signed Letter of Interest regarding a new assembly line. While the delivery took place in Alverca, the proposed assembly line is reportedly being considered for the Beja Air Base. This facility would focus on assembling A-29N aircraft for future export customers in the region.

Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, emphasized the strategic logic behind this move:

“There is growing interest in employing the A-29 for counter-UAS missions in Europe, and a potential assembly line in Portugal paves the way for the development of new business and broader cooperation with the Portuguese defense industry.”

AirPro News Analysis

The delivery of the A-29N to Portugal signals a shift in European defense procurement strategies. For decades, European air forces have relied heavily on high-performance jet fighters. However, the rising cost of flight hours, often exceeding $20,000 for 4th and 5th-generation jets, has created a market gap for cost-effective alternatives.

We observe that the A-29N, with operating costs estimated around $1,000 per flight hour, offers a financially viable solution for low-intensity missions such as border patrol, basic Close Air Support (CAS), and pilot training. Furthermore, the explicit mention of Counter-UAS (C-UAS) capabilities addresses a critical vulnerability exposed by recent conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, where slow-moving drones have become a persistent threat that is expensive to counter with high-end missiles.

By establishing an assembly line in Portugal, Embraer is likely positioning itself to compete for contracts with other NATO nations, such as the Netherlands, which require advanced trainers to bridge the gap between basic flight school and complex F-35 operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the A-29 and the A-29N?
The A-29N is a variant specifically configured for NATO nations. It includes a NATO-standard datalink, modifications for single-pilot operation, and specific training integrations that differ from the standard export models used in South America or Africa.

How many aircraft did Portugal order?
The Portuguese Air Force ordered a total of 12 A-29N Super Tucanos. Five were delivered on December 17, 2025.

What role will OGMA play?
OGMA, based in Alverca, will provide maintenance, logistics, and engineering support for the fleet. It is also the site where the initial delivery ceremony took place.

Sources: Embraer

This article is based on an official press release from Airbus.

Spain Orders 100 Airbus Helicopters in Historic €4 Billion Deal

On December 18, 2025, the Spanish Ministry of Defence formalized a historic agreement with Airbus Helicopters to acquire 100 military aircraft. Valued at approximately €4 billion for the manufacturer, with a total program cost estimated at €5.3 billion when including government-furnished equipment, this contract represents the largest helicopter procurement in the history of the Spanish Directorate General for Armament and Material (DGAM).

According to the official announcement, the acquisition is the centerpiece of Spain’s “National Helicopter Plan” (Plan Nacional de Helicópteros). This strategic initiative aims to consolidate the country’s military fleets, streamline logistics, and strengthen the national defense industry. The order encompasses four different helicopter models destined for the Spanish Army, Navy, and Air and Space Force.

Notably, this contract establishes Spain as the launch customer for the military version of the H175M, a significant milestone for Airbus in the super-medium helicopter market.

Breakdown of the 100-Unit Order

The contract covers a diverse range of platforms designed to standardize operations across Spain’s armed forces. According to details released regarding the procurement, the order is distributed as follows:

• H145M (50 units): The largest portion of the order is allocated to the Spanish Army Aviation (FAMET). These units will serve in light attack, training, and tactical support roles. Reports indicate they will be equipped with the HForce weapon system to complement the existing Tiger attack helicopter fleet.
• NH90 (31 units): This batch reinforces the NH90 as the backbone of Spanish tactical transport. The units are split among the Army (13), Air Force (12), and Navy (6), with the naval variants specifically targeted for amphibious warfare and special operations.
• H135 (13 units): Assigned primarily to the Air Force (12) and Navy (1), these light helicopters will function as advanced trainers, facilitating pilot transition to more complex platforms.
• H175M (6 units): These super-medium helicopters are designated for the Air and Space Force’s Wing 48 (Ala 48) to handle VIP and governmental transport duties.

“This contract is a decisive step towards the modernization of our armed forces and the consolidation of our national defense industry.”

, Statement attributed to Ministry of Defence officials in related reporting.

Industrial Impact on Albacete

A critical component of the agreement is the industrial return for Spain. Airbus has confirmed that the production and modification of these aircraft will center on its facility in Albacete. The manufacturer states that this contract will secure the plant’s industrial activity for the coming decade and lead to the creation of over 300 direct, highly qualified jobs.

In addition to assembly, the agreement includes the development of new infrastructure in Albacete:

• A Military Customization Center to tailor aircraft to specific mission requirements.
• An International Training Center focused on the H145M platform.
• A Digital Campus dedicated to fleet support technologies and digital capabilities.

Delivery Timeline

According to the schedule outlined in the announcement, deliveries are expected to proceed in phases:

• 2027: Deliveries of the H135 training helicopters begin.
• 2028: The first H145M and H175M units are slated for handover.
• 2031: Deliveries of the new batch of NH90s will commence, ensuring long-term production continuity at the Albacete site.

AirPro News Analysis

The inclusion of the H175M is perhaps the most strategically significant aspect of this order for Airbus. By securing Spain as a launch customer, Airbus validates the H175M as a credible military platform in the competitive “super-medium” category, where it faces stiff competition from the Leonardo AW149. This domestic endorsement provides a critical reference case for export campaigns.

Furthermore, the “National Helicopter Plan” reflects a broader NATO trend toward fleet rationalization. By reducing the number of airframe types in service, Spain aims to lower long-term maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) costs while simplifying pilot training pipelines, a move that prioritizes operational availability over platform diversity.

Sources

Sources: Airbus Press Release