KAI, Hyundai Rotem to team up on long-range air-to-air missiles for KF-21

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hyundai Rotem have entered into a partnership to develop and integrate advanced long-range air-to-air missiles for the KF-21 fighter jet, according to a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on Wednesday in Sacheon. This collaboration aims to explore opportunities for exporting aircraft and weapons packages to markets worldwide.

The agreement covers the development and systems integration of aircraft platforms, including the KF-21, as well as airborne weapons, specifically focusing on long-range air-to-air missiles. Beyond the KF-21, the companies will also look into package-type export models that combine aircraft with onboard weapons, conducting business opportunities assessments both domestically and internationally, as well as undertaking global marketing efforts.

As Hyundai Rotem ramps up its efforts to venture beyond ground weapon systems into the aerospace sector, the agreement marks a significant step forward in their growth strategy, including the development of propulsion systems, long-range air-to-air guided weapons, and hypersonic flight vehicles.