SEOUL — Korean Air Co. has entered discussions with L3Harris Technologies Inc., a major player in the U.S. defense industry, to enhance the surveillance capabilities of the South Korean Air Force. The talks, aimed at expanding the Air Force's ability to monitor activities using advanced airborne systems, took place in Seoul this Tuesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting saw the participation of Park Jung-woo, Senior Vice President of Korean Air's aerospace business division; Jason Lambert, President of L3Harris Intelligence; and delegates from 30 other local and international defense companies. The initiative focuses on the potential acquisition of additional Airborne Early Warning and Control systems. Currently, the Air Force utilizes four Boeing E-737 Peace Eye aircraft for surveillance, with plans underway to expand this fleet by 2031.
L3Harris has recommended a combination of Bombardier Defense's Global 6500 aircraft with cutting-edge radar technology from Israel Aerospace Industries for the project's second phase. As part of a 2022 cooperation agreement with L3Harris, Korean Air is set to support aircraft modification, parts production, and training operations.
This project is poised to offer significant technology transfer opportunities to the domestic defense sector, boosting local capabilities and promoting integration with global supply chains. "This strategic collaboration will enable Korean Air to acquire and develop cutting-edge technologies in the modification, systems integration and comprehensive maintenance of advanced special mission aircraft," stated Park. He further emphasized Korean Air's commitment to strengthening strategic alliances within the defense industry and enhancing the overall aerospace aftermarket value chain.