Hanwha Aerospace has embarked on a joint development initiative with the Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) aimed at producing a 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine tailored for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) and other unmanned aerial platforms.
Under the program, Hanwha Aerospace will take the lead in engine development. KASA will contribute through financial investment, while Hanwha will dedicate resources to engine design, core component development, testing infrastructure, and ensuring production readiness.
The new engine is designed as a high-bypass turbofan, focusing on fuel efficiency for both military and civil applications. Additionally, its design could be adapted for small business jets and various commercial aircraft.
This turbofan engine is part of a broader UAV propulsion portfolio that Hanwha Aerospace is developing with support from the Korean government. This portfolio includes a 5,500-pound-class low-bypass turbofan for low-observable unmanned wingman aircraft, a 1,400-horsepower-class turboprop for medium-altitude UAVs, and fundamental technologies for a 10,000-pound-class turbofan intended for stealth platforms.
Notably, this engine will be the first in Korea to feature a starter-generator integrated onto the engine shaft, capable of supplying up to 100 kW of electrical power. The CCA platforms, which are designed to operate collaboratively with manned fighters, will require substantial power for computing, radar, electronic warfare, and sensor operations.
Hanwha Aerospace plans to employ additive manufacturing and other advanced production techniques to expedite development cycles while reducing costs. These efforts will yield lightweight, electrified propulsion systems for global customers. The increasing geopolitical developments are intensifying demand for quicker delivery timelines and enhanced affordability. To address this, Hanwha intends to invest approximately KRW 750 billion (USD 500 million) in UAV platforms, engine development, and related facilities.
A representative from Hanwha Aerospace stated, “As global demand for CCA and unmanned platforms grows, propulsion will be central to fielding these systems at scale. This program positions Hanwha Aerospace to deliver the performance, affordability, and delivery speed that customers need.”
About Hanwha Aerospace
Hanwha Aerospace is a leading global aerospace and defense company, offering a comprehensive portfolio of products and services. This includes advanced land combat vehicles such as the K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer and the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle, a variety of weapons systems, munitions, aircraft engine components, and technology-driven products and services. As the largest aerospace and defense company in South Korea, Hanwha Aerospace is committed to research, development, and the manufacturing of cutting-edge technological systems, playing a pivotal role in the country’s space endeavors.
For more information, visit: www.hanwhaaerospace.com
