KAI, Airbus expand aerospace, defense cooperation with MOU

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), Monday, with global aerospace leader Airbus to expand cooperation in the defense and aerospace sectors.

The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition 2025 (AEDX 2025) at KINTEX in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province. KAI acting CEO Cha Jae-byoung, Anand Stanley, president of Airbus for the Asia-Pacific region, and Airbus Chief Representative Korea Lee Hee-hwan attended the event.

The two companies said they plan to explore collaboration across various aerospace fields, including special mission aircraft, high-speed medium-lift helicopters, KF-21 and FA-50 aerial refueling flight tests and military satellite communication capabilities.

The MOU also opens the door for cooperation in emerging technologies and the pursuit of new joint projects, with the goal of developing a long-term, comprehensive business partnership.

KAI said it has worked with Airbus for 20 years in defense and aerospace, building trust through joint development, technology cooperation and industrial partnerships. Projects have included the Korean Utility Helicopter (KUH) Surion, the light armed helicopter (LAH) and technology transfers for the KF-21 aerial refueling tanker certification.

Cha said the expanded cooperation is “a significant milestone for strengthening the competitiveness of Korea’s aerospace industry. Through a strategic partnership built on mutual trust, we aim to achieve sustainable growth and lead future technologies.”

Stanley described Korea as a key strategic partner for Airbus and said the agreement reflects both companies’ shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the growth of the nation’s aerospace industry.