SEOUL – Airbus SE, a leading European aerospace corporation, has announced active engagement with the South Korean government to establish a research and development (R&D) center in the country. This move is part of Airbus' strategy to strengthen partnerships with local companies in South Korea.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Yonhap News Agency, Airbus aims to become a key partner in the development of local solutions in the helicopter, defense, space sectors, and the supply chain in Korea. Last month, Loic Porcheron, Airbus' chief representative for South Korea, indicated the possibility of building an R&D center for these purposes. The proposed center, tentatively named the International Technology Center (ITC), is expected to boost the local aerospace industry by fostering collaboration and expertise among large and small aerospace companies in Korea.
The discussions include conceptualizing the setup and requirements of the ITC and its potential location. Airbus envisions the center as an innovation test bed for new technologies developed locally. Airbus has been present in the South Korean market since 1974, when Korean Air Co. ordered the A300B4 aircraft. Currently, the country operates approximately 150 commercial aircraft, 60 civil and military helicopters, and 30 military transport aircraft produced by Airbus. Airbus also runs a helicopter production line at Korea Aerospace Industries Co.'s facility in Sacheon.