South Korea has been making significant strides in the global arms industry, positioning itself as a leading exporter of advanced aviation engine technology. From sophisticated fighter jets to powerful howitzers, South Korea is quickly becoming a major player in the defense sector. South Korea is rising to prominence as a weapon superpower.
Advanced Aviation Engine Technology
South Korea is taking a bold step by developing its own aviation engines to rival some of the best in the world. The domestic jet engine, announced by South Korean defense contractor Hanwha Defense, is designed to power the Republic of Korea Air Force’s (RoKAF) KF-21 fighter jet. Remarkably, this new engine is expected to match the size of General Electric’s (GE) F414 engine, widely used in advanced aircraft like the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and HAL Tejas Mk2. However, Hanwha claims that their aviation engine will offer superior performance.
At the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, Won-Wook Kim, head of Hanwha Aerospace’s advanced aero engine business unit, shared that the new engine had to fit within the same dimensions as the F414 to ensure compatibility. The goal is to eventually replace the F414 in the KF-21 with the South Korean-made aviation engine. This engine, boasting around 24,000 pounds of force with a six-stage compressor, aims to enhance the KF-21 fighter’s capabilities.
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Hanwha showcased a prototype of this engine, which is expected to power both manned and unmanned systems within the next decade. The company plans to integrate advanced technologies like 3D printing in future models. With thrust capabilities ranging from 15,000 to 18,000 pounds and up to 26,000 pounds with afterburner, this new engine could significantly boost South Korea’s defense capabilities.
The KF-21 Boramae, an advanced supersonic fighter, is set to become the backbone of South Korea’s Air Force. With mass production expected to continue until 2032, this aircraft will play a crucial role in enhancing the country’s defense system. An indigenous engine that rivals GE’s F414 would mark a significant achievement for South Korea, showcasing its technical prowess and innovation in the defense sector.
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A Global Defense Exporter
South Korea has rapidly ascended the ranks of global defense exporters, with arms exports soaring from USD 2-3 billion in the late 2010s to USD 17.3 billion in 2022. In 2023, the country achieved USD 14 billion in arms exports, solidifying its status as a leader in the industry. By 2024, exports are expected to reach USD 20 billion.
South Korea’s success in the arms market can be attributed to its high-quality equipment and competitive pricing. South Korean defense companies have been making significant inroads into markets traditionally dominated by Western suppliers. For example, South Korean Howitzers and other military equipment have been sold to countries in Europe and Asia, challenging the dominance of American and Russian arms manufacturers.
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Key products driving South Korea’s arms exports include the K9 Howitzer, Chunmoo Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), K-2 battle tanks, and the FA-50 light attack aircraft. Hanwha Defense, a major player in South Korea’s defense industry, has been instrumental in this success, contributing significantly to the country’s rise as a top arms exporter.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) ranked South Korea as the world’s ninth-largest arms exporter from 2018 to 2022. Notably, South Korea is one of only two Asian countries in the top 25 exporters, the other being China. Hanwha Defense has played a crucial role in achieving this status.
International Arms Deals
South Korea’s defense industry has secured numerous international deals, further establishing its reputation as a reliable supplier of advanced military equipment. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Egypt, Malaysia, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Poland, Norway, Turkey, Finland, Estonia, and Australia have all acquired major weapon systems from South Korea including the aviation engine technology.
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One of the most significant developments has been the substantial arms sales to Poland since 2022. These deals include parts for the T/FA-50 trainer, K9 howitzers, and Chunmoo MLRS. Additionally, Australia decided to purchase the Redback infantry combat vehicle in 2023, further boosting South Korea’s defense exports.
More recently, Hanwha Aerospace signed a $1 billion contract to provide 54 K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers and 36 K10 Ammunition Resupply Vehicles to Romania. This deal also includes a package of wheeled support vehicles and ammunition, showcasing South Korea’s ability to deliver comprehensive defense solutions.
A major selling point for South Korean weaponry is its compatibility with NATO and US systems. This compatibility makes South Korean aviation engines an attractive option for countries looking to integrate new equipment into their existing military infrastructure. South Korean defense firms are also known for their prompt deliveries, further enhancing their appeal to international buyers.
South Korea’s development of a domestic aviation engine for the KF-21 fighter jet is expected to attract significant interest from international buyers. The KF-21 Boramae, once equipped with an indigenous aviation engine, will likely be easier to export, potentially boosting South Korea’s defense exports even further.
South Korea’s rise as a weapon superpower is a testament to its innovation, technical expertise, and strategic vision in the defense sector. With advanced aviation engine technology, a strong presence in the global arms market, and significant international arms deals, South Korea is well on its way to becoming a dominant force in the global defense industry.
