The MoU was signed by Chongho Yoon, Senior Executive Vice President and General Manager of Aircraft Program Division at KAI, and Markus Borgljung, Vice President and Deputy Head of Saab’s Business Area Surveillance. The agreement signifies the commitment of both companies to collaborate if Saab’s GlobalEye system is selected for the AEW&C II programme.
Saab’s GlobalEye, considered one of the most advanced AEW&C systems available, is currently in production, under contract, and operational in other regions. It offers enhanced performance, longer mission duration, higher availability, and lower operational costs compared to existing platforms. Saab’s proposal includes the modification of the Bombardier Global 6500 business jet into a GlobalEye AEW&C special mission aircraft, covering airframe modifications, system integration, and extensive testing.
Through the MoU, Saab and KAI will enhance South Korea’s capabilities in airborne surveillance by transferring advanced radar and critical technologies, allowing KAI to manage future modifications, maintenance, and repairs of the GlobalEye system independently. Mr. Borgljung emphasised that this collaboration will increase domestic expertise and self-sufficiency in South Korea’s airborne defence sector.
“This MoU between Saab and KAI will increase critical radar technology competence, and create domestic capability and self-sustainability for the Republic of Korea in the airborne surveillance segment,” said Mr. Borgljung.
The partnership is expected to extend beyond the AEW&C II programme. Mr. Yoon highlighted that the MoU serves as a foundation for future cooperation on special mission aircraft programmes in Korea, further strengthening KAI’s capabilities through technology transfer and independent research and development.
Saab has had a significant presence in South Korea for over 20 years, delivering key defence systems that are now essential to the country’s security. These include naval Electronic Support Measures (ESM) systems, Ceros Fire Control Directors, and Arthur weapon locating radars. Saab has also worked closely with South Korean government agencies and national industries to provide advanced solutions such as naval combat systems, missile systems, and radar technology. These contributions have played a vital role in enhancing the defence and protection of the Korean people.
KAI is an ideal partner for Saab, with extensive experience in special mission aircraft modification, demonstrated through its involvement in previous programmes like AEW&C I and the P-3CK Maritime Patrol Aircraft upgrade. If Saab is selected for the AEW&C II project, KAI’s expertise will support the timely delivery of aircraft to the Republic of Korea Air Force.
This collaboration between Saab and KAI reflects a growing trend towards industrial cooperation and technology transfer, allowing South Korea to build local expertise and reduce reliance on foreign defence suppliers. The MoU marks an important opportunity for both companies to strengthen their relationship and address future defence and surveillance needs in South Korea.
Source: Saab.
