The winning bid features the integration of IAI’s EL/W-2085 radar into Bombardier Global 6500 business jets, offering over ten hours of endurance without air-to-air refuelling. This marks the radar system’s first deployment on the Global 6500 platform, with its conformal radar modules mounted along the aircraft’s fuselage—similar to configurations previously delivered to Israel, Italy, and Singapore aboard Gulfstream G550 jets.
According to DAPA, “The Phoenix and GlobalEye offered comparable radar performance,” but L3Harris achieved a higher overall evaluation score based on “operational suitability, life cycle costs and industrial participation.” While Saab, in partnership with Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), and Boeing also submitted bids, L3Harris and IAI’s proposal offered the highest level of local industry engagement, a decisive factor in the selection process.
A green Global 6500 aircraft will be delivered to L3Harris for system integration and certification, with two aircraft set to be converted in the United States and Israel. The remaining two will be modified in South Korea by Korean Air, further strengthening domestic industrial participation in the project.
“This Maritime Industrial Base investment is a pivotal step to further unlock AM capabilities, enabling the defense industry to address complex supply chain challenges with innovative, efficient solutions,” said Ken Jeanos, vice president of Supply Chain, Materials and Logistics for General Dynamics Electric Boat, highlighting a broader shift in defence procurement towards advanced manufacturing and multinational cooperation.
Steven B. Hedlund, chairman and CEO of Lincoln Electric, emphasised the strategic impact of defence sector partnerships. “This investment strengthens our partnership with Electric Boat and solidifies Lincoln Electric’s commitment to delivering transformative solutions for the defense industrial base.”
The Republic of Korea Air Force currently operates four Boeing 737-based E-7 Peace Eye AEW&C aircraft delivered in 2011–2012, which provide partial coverage of South Korea’s air defence identification zone. The new aircraft are expected to significantly enhance surveillance reach and response capability over the Korean Peninsula and nearby airspace.
In 2024, the U.S. Department of State estimated that supplying four additional E-7 Wedgetail aircraft to South Korea could cost up to USD 4.9 billion—more than double the cost of the chosen L3Harris-IAI solution. DAPA stated it will finalise the contract with L3Harris and convene a programme launch meeting by November.
