Hanwha Aerospace Partners with Korea Aerospace Administration to Pioneer UAV Engine Innovations
May 26th, 2026 – Hanwha Aerospace has announced an exciting partnership with the Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) to create a cutting-edge 4,500-pound-class turbofan engine. This engine is intended for use in Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) as well as various unmanned aerial systems.
In this initiative, Hanwha Aerospace will spearhead the development of the engine, while KASA will support the program through funding. The investment will enhance engine design, core component innovation, testing infrastructure, and ensure production readiness.
This high-bypass turbofan engine is engineered for superior fuel efficiency, suitable for both military and civilian aviation. It also holds potential for adaptation to small business jets and additional commercial aircraft applications.
Part of an extensive UAV propulsion strategy, the 4,500-pound-class engine contributes to Hanwha Aerospace’s development portfolio, which includes a 5,500-pound-class low-bypass turbofan designed for low-observable unmanned wingman aircraft, a 1,400-horsepower-class turboprop intended for medium-altitude UAVs, and essential technologies for a stealth-oriented 10,000-pound-class turbofan engine.
This innovative engine will mark a significant milestone as it will be the first developed in Korea featuring a starter-generator on the engine shaft, capable of delivering up to 100kW of electrical power. The CCA platforms, designed to complement manned fighters, will demand significant electrical resources for computing, radar capabilities, electronic warfare systems, and various sensor operations.
Hanwha Aerospace is committed to incorporating advanced manufacturing techniques, including additive manufacturing, to accelerate development timelines and drive down costs. This focus on lightweight, electrified propulsion systems aims to meet the growing global demand from customers for efficient production solutions. The company plans to invest approximately KRW 750 billion (USD 500 million) in UAV platforms, engine innovation, and supporting infrastructures.
A spokesperson from Hanwha Aerospace stated, “As global demand for CCA and unmanned systems escalates, propulsion technology will be crucial for scaling these solutions. This program positions Hanwha Aerospace to deliver the performance, cost-effectiveness, and speed that the market requires.”
