On May 26, 2026, Hanwha Aerospace and the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) officially launched a joint development program to produce South Korea’s first indigenous 4,500-pound-force (lbf) turbofan engine. According to the official press release, the engine is targeted for operational deployment by 2029 and is designed primarily to power Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

We note that this initiative represents a critical milestone in South Korea’s pursuit of aerospace self-sufficiency. Historically reliant on foreign military engines, Seoul is now positioning itself as a top-tier player in the rapidly expanding global market for autonomous military systems, aiming to end its dependence on external supply chains.

Technical Specifications and Innovations

The 100 kW Embedded Starter-Generator

The new high-bypass turbofan engine will generate 4,500 lbf (2,040 kg) of thrust. While optimized for military UAVs, the program details note that the engine maintains a dual-use architecture, meaning it could eventually be adapted for civil aviation applications such as small commercial business jets.

A major technical innovation highlighted in the development plan is the inclusion of an embedded starter-generator. Rather than utilizing a traditional external unit, the generator will be integrated directly onto the engine’s rotating shaft. According to industry research, this design choice significantly reduces the overall weight of the engine, thereby improving flight performance and efficiency.

Crucially, this embedded generator is designed to reliably supply up to 100 kilowatts (kW) of electrical power. Defense analysts emphasize that this high power output is essential for modern autonomous combat aircraft, which require substantial electricity to run advanced artificial intelligence computing, sensor arrays, radar systems, and electronic warfare systems.

Strategic Funding and Market Implications

A Billion-Dollar Investment in Autonomy

The project is being led by Hanwha Aerospace, South Korea’s largest defense conglomerate, in collaboration with KASA, the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), various universities, and domestic subcontractors.

Financial commitments to the program are substantial. According to industry reports, KASA has allocated approximately 900 billion won (roughly $650 million) in state funding between 2026 and 2029 for this next-generation dual-use aircraft engine program. In tandem, Hanwha Aerospace plans to invest an additional 750 billion won (approximately $498 million) to build out a comprehensive drone engine portfolio.

This 4,500-lbf engine is part of a broader government-backed UAV propulsion strategy. Hanwha is also reportedly developing a 5,500-lbf low-bypass turbofan for low-observable unmanned wingman aircraft, as well as core technologies for a 10,000-lbf turbofan intended for larger stealth platforms.

AirPro News analysis

We view this combined investment of over $1.1 billion as a clear declaration of aerospace independence by South Korea. Currently, the domestically built KF-21 Boramae fighter jet relies on the American General Electric F414 engine. By developing an indigenous turbofan, South Korea mitigates the vulnerability of potential export restrictions and strengthens the resilience of its national defense supply chain.

Furthermore, securing domestic technology for the “heart of the unmanned fighter” positions South Korea to capture a significant share of the global CCA market. Industry forecasts expect the CCA market to exceed 3,000 units by the 2040s. If Hanwha successfully produces a reliable and affordable turbofan by 2029, South Korea will possess a highly lucrative export product for allied nations developing their own drone programs.

Liselotte Odgaard, a Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute, noted that Seoul’s attempt to indigenize this complex drone technology should be viewed as a “deliberate bid to enter the top tier of UAV producers.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is a Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA)?

The Collaborative Combat Aircraft concept represents a major shift in military aviation. Instead of deploying manned fighters alone, the CCA model pairs them with AI-powered “loyal wingman” drones that can scout ahead, jam enemy radars, or carry additional munitions to support the primary manned aircraft.

Why do modern drones require 100 kW of electrical power?

As aircraft become increasingly “electrified,” they rely on power-hungry onboard electronics. A 100 kW output is necessary to support the intense computing requirements of artificial intelligence, as well as advanced sensors, radar systems, and electronic warfare equipment required on the modern aerial battlefield.

Sources

• aunches-uav-engine-development-program-with-korea-aerospace-administration.do”>Hanwha Aerospace Press Release
• Industry Research Report

This article is based on an official press release from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI).

On May 27, 2026, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) announced the successful completion of a major flight test demonstrating advanced Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). The exercise paired an F-35 Lightning II fighter jet system with an uncrewed MQ-20 Avenger drone, which acted as a surrogate for the U.S. Air Force’s future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA).

According to the official press release, the test successfully validated the hardware, software, and communication networks required to allow a human pilot to command a semi-autonomous drone in real-time. This marks a significant milestone in the Air Force’s push toward integrating AI-driven “loyal wingmen” into combat operations.

The demonstration was a joint effort involving GA-ASI, the F-35 Joint Program Office, Lockheed Martin, Autonodyne, and several U.S. Air-Forces units, including the 309th Software Engineering Group, 461st Flight Test Squadron, and 370th Flight Test Squadron.

Executing the Manned-Unmanned Teaming Demonstration

During the demonstration, the F-35 remained on the ground while the MQ-20 Avenger was airborne. The F-35 pilot used a tablet in the cockpit to send tactical autonomy commands to the MQ-20 via a “Bashi Pilot Vehicle Interface,” according to the provided research report.

The MQ-20 successfully received the commands, executed tactical maneuvers, and adjusted its waypoints. Furthermore, the drone transmitted critical autonomous responses, including ADS-B track data, location, altitude, and velocity, back to the F-35 pilot.

Building on Previous Milestones

This demonstration builds upon previous tests conducted in October 2025 and February 2026. During those earlier exercises, an Air Force F-22 Raptor pilot successfully controlled an MQ-20 Avenger, laying the groundwork for this most recent F-35 integration.

The Technological Backbone: TacACE and A-GRA

The success of the demonstration relied on several cutting-edge software and communication frameworks. The MQ-20 was equipped with GA-ASI’s proprietary Tactical Autonomy Ecosystem (TacACE) software. In previous tests, TacACE has demonstrated the ability to support autonomous mission execution, cooperative targeting, and stealthy “sensor-to-shooter” kill chains.

TacACE is built upon the U.S. Air Force’s Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA). A-GRA is a government-owned, modular open-systems framework designed to standardize mission autonomy across different platforms. By decoupling the software from the vehicle hardware, A-GRA prevents “vendor lock” and allows the Air Force to rapidly integrate algorithms from various defense contractors.

Additionally, the aircraft were linked using Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) communications. The test proved the ability of both platforms to utilize a tactical proliferated low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite data link to achieve seamless coordination.

Contextualizing the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) Program

The MQ-20 Avenger has served as a surrogate testbed for the CCA program for over five years, allowing the Air Force and GA-ASI to refine autonomy software and MUM-T concepts. The CCA program is designed to address the operational problem that crewed fighters alone cannot generate sufficient combat mass. These semi-autonomous drones are intended to fly alongside crewed fighters, acting as force multipliers for strike, air-to-air, and intelligence missions.

The Air Force is currently moving toward production for “Increment 1” of the CCA program. The service has requested nearly $1 billion in its FY2027 budget to initiate procurement of the first batch of these drones, estimated between 100 and 150 aircraft. GA-ASI is one of the primary finalists for Increment 1 with its YFQ-42A, recently named “Dark Merlin,” which began flight testing in August 2025.

“This significant warfighter integration milestone is the beginning of operational readiness for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft and demonstrates the near-term opportunities for force integration. Events like these drive home GA-ASI’s continued commitment to adoption of next-generation data links, mission autonomy, and unmanned air combat operations.”

AirPro News analysis

We observe that the successful pairing of a 5th-generation fighter’s interface with an autonomous drone proves that the “loyal wingman” concept is moving rapidly from theory to operational reality. The ability to control an uncrewed asset from a fighter cockpit via satellite data links represents a critical leap in combat networking.

Furthermore, the use of the A-GRA framework highlights a massive shift in defense procurement. The military is increasingly buying hardware and software separately, forcing traditional defense contractors to adapt to a highly competitive, open-architecture ecosystem rather than relying on proprietary, closed systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T)?

MUM-T is a military concept where crewed aircraft (like an F-35) and uncrewed autonomous drones (like the MQ-20) operate together in a synchronized manner, sharing data and executing coordinated tactical maneuvers.

What is the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program?

The CCA program is a U.S. Air Force initiative to develop jet-powered, semi-autonomous drones that will fly alongside crewed fighters. They are designed to be affordable, capable, and numerous, acting as force multipliers in combat scenarios.

Why was the MQ-20 Avenger used in this test?

The MQ-20 Avenger serves as a surrogate testbed. It allows the Air Force and defense contractors to test and refine the autonomy software and communication links that will eventually be installed in the actual CCA airframes, such as GA-ASI’s YFQ-42A “Dark Merlin.”

Sources

• General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)

On Friday, May 22, 2026, the Polish Air Force officially welcomed its first three F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets to home soil. Landing at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, central Poland, the arrival of these fifth-generation aircraft represents a historic milestone in the nation’s military modernization efforts. Furthermore, it marks the first permanent deployment of fifth-generation fighters on NATO’s eastern flank.

The delivery was publicly celebrated by allied forces, highlighting the strategic importance of the acquisition for regional security. According to an official social media release from NATO Air Command, the deployment significantly bolsters the alliance’s collective defense posture.

“Poland enters a new era of air power. The first F-35A Lightning II aircraft have arrived, marking a major step forward for the Polish Air Force and enhancing readiness and integration with NATO forces,” stated NATO Air Command.

The Arrival of the “Husarz”

The three newly arrived F-35A jets bear the serial numbers 3509, 3510, and 3511, according to the provided research report. In a nod to the nation’s military heritage, the Polish variant of the Lightning II has been officially designated the “Husarz” (Hussar), honoring the renowned Polish winged heavy cavalry units that operated between the 16th and 18th centuries.

The delivery flight was a complex logistical operation. The research report details that the aircraft were flown directly from Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The transatlantic journey included a strategic stopover at Lajes Field Air Base in the Azores and was supported by a U.S. Air Force KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling tanker. Upon entering Polish airspace, the advanced stealth fighters were met and escorted to their new home by two Polish Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcons.

Infrastructure and the 2020 Procurement Contract

The arrival of the Husarz is the culmination of a $4.6 billion contract signed by the Polish government in January 2020. According to official procurement details, this agreement with the United States and Lockheed Martin covers the purchase of 32 F-35A multirole fighters, alongside pilot training, full mission simulators, and comprehensive logistical support. It stands as the second-largest arms contracts in Poland’s history.

While these three jets are the first to land in Poland, they are not the first to be delivered to the Polish Air-Forces. The research report notes that Poland had already formally taken delivery of eight aircraft (serials 3501 to 3508). Since 2024, these initial jets have been stationed at the Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas, where Polish pilots and ground crews have been undergoing rigorous Training.

To prepare for the domestic arrival of the F-35s, Poland invested heavily in modernizing the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask. Upgrades included the construction of new shelters, the implementation of secure data links, and significant enhancements to weapons-storage facilities to accommodate the advanced requirements of fifth-generation stealth fighters.

Strategic Implications for NATO’s Eastern Flank

The permanent basing of F-35As in Poland introduces a profound technological leap for the region. The aircraft’s advanced stealth, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare capabilities allow the Polish Air Force to detect, track, and engage threats at unprecedented ranges. Crucially, this acquisition enables Poland to finalize the phase-out of its aging, Soviet-era MiG-29 and Su-22 fleets, transitioning entirely to NATO-interoperable standards alongside its existing F-16s and recently acquired South Korean FA-50s.

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense of Poland, emphasized the historic nature of the delivery in an official statement.

“This is a great day for Poland, for the Polish Armed Forces, for the Air Force. The first three F-35s have landed in Poland, in the 32nd Air Base in Łask, which today becomes a home for our F-35 aircraft,” Kosiniak-Kamysz stated. “These are the first 5th-generation fighters on NATO’s eastern flank capable of detecting threats before they themselves are spotted. For Poland, this is not just new equipment, but a step into the elite global league of modern air forces.”

He further noted that the F-35s, alongside Apache helicopters and Abrams tanks, serve as “symbols of transatlantic cooperation, in which Poland plays an absolute leading role.”

AirPro News analysis

At AirPro News, we view the permanent deployment of the F-35A in Poland as a transformative shift in European defense architecture. By positioning fifth-generation sensor nodes directly on NATO’s eastern frontier, the alliance gains a critical advantage in multi-domain surveillance and deep-strike deterrence. The F-35 is not merely a fighter jet; it acts as an airborne command center capable of vacuuming up electronic intelligence and distributing it across allied networks. As Poland phases out its legacy Soviet hardware, its air force is rapidly becoming one of the most technologically advanced and lethal in Europe, fundamentally altering the balance of air power in the region.

Future Timeline and Operational Readiness

With the first aircraft now on Polish soil, the Ministry of National Defense has outlined a clear timeline for integration. According to the provided research report, the newly arrived F-35s are scheduled to be officially unveiled to the public and media on June 12, 2026.

Deliveries will continue at a steady pace. By the end of 2026, a total of 14 F-35s are expected to be stationed at the Łask base. The Polish Air Force targets initial operational readiness (IOC) for its first F-35 squadrons by 2027. The complete delivery of all 32 procured aircraft is scheduled to be finalized between 2029 and 2030.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Polish variant of the F-35 called?

The Polish F-35A has been officially named the “Husarz” (Hussar), paying tribute to the famous Polish winged heavy cavalry units of the 16th to 18th centuries.

How many F-35s is Poland purchasing?

Under a $4.6 billion contract signed in January 2020, Poland is procuring a total of 32 F-35A Lightning II aircraft.

When will the Polish F-35 fleet be fully operational?

The first Polish F-35 squadrons are expected to reach initial operational readiness by 2027, with the delivery of all 32 aircraft scheduled for completion by 2029-2030.

Sources

• NATO Air Command
• Official statements from the Polish Ministry of National Defense