S.Korea To Develop Electronic Warfare Aircraft – Two Consortiums In Race

South Korea has launched a 1.78 trillion won ($1.28B) program to develop its first indigenous electronic warfare aircraft, with two rival consortiums competing for the contract.

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) closed bidding on September 2, with proposals submitted by a team of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Systems, and another by LIG Nex1 and Korean Air. DAPA is expected to complete its evaluation in September and select a preferred bidder in early October.

The Block-I electronic warfare aircraft project aims to convert a mid-sized commercial aircraft into a military platform capable of detecting, analyzing, and disrupting enemy air defense networks. The Air Force plans to receive four aircraft by 2034.

Currently, Korea relies on electronic warfare pods and U.S. support for such missions.

KAI and Hanwha Systems have divided responsibilities, with KAI focusing on aircraft design, structural conversion, and certification, while Hanwha develops the electronic warfare system, covering attack, protection, and support functions.

The competing bid from LIG Nex1 and Korean Air places LIG Nex1 in charge of the electronic systems, leveraging its role in developing the KF-21’s electronic warfare suite. Korean Air, experienced in retrofitting commercial and military aircraft, will handle aircraft modification and system integration.