The collaboration positions Hanwha to tap into the rapidly growing global drone market, projected to reach 50 trillion won (approximately $34 billion) by 2040.
The partnership will center on the development of the Gray Eagle-STOL (GE-STOL) unmanned aerial vehicle, an evolution of General Atomics’ Mojave demonstrator, which was tested in South Korean naval combat exercises last November.
The companies disclosed the agreement on Thursday, emphasizing its potential to enhance South Korea’s defense capabilities.
“Securing unmanned aircraft capabilities is essential for expanding South Korea’s self-reliant defense posture and the future growth of the K-defense industry,” said Kim Dong-kwan, vice chairman of Hanwha Group, highlighting the strategic significance of the collaboration.
The agreement covers the full spectrum of the aircraft’s development, from planning and design to system integration, production, and sales. Hanwha has committed more than 750 billion won to establish research and manufacturing infrastructure in South Korea.
General Atomics, which supplies high-performance unmanned aircraft to NATO members as well as to the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and other allied nations, anticipates selling more than 600 GE-STOL units over the next decade. The company projects sales exceeding 15 trillion won across markets in the United States, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe.
The companies expect the GE-STOL to take its maiden flight in early 2027.
reporter
Kim Dong-young
davekim0807@ajupress.com
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