Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) presented a range of its platforms at the IQDEX defense exhibition in Baghdad, including the FA-50 light combat aircraft and the KF-21 jet. The company also promoted its upcoming unmanned aerial vehicle and Korean utility helicopter solutions to address Iraq’s diverse operational needs.
Speaking to defensehere.com, Dae-Seo Park, from KAI’s Global Business Development Department, discussed the advantages of the FA-50, especially for air forces currently operating the T-50 trainer. Park highlighted the compatibility of the FA-50 with existing systems and proposed the addition of a Sniper targeting pod as part of an upgrade package for the Iraqi Air Force.
Park emphasized that, unlike many competitors that adapt trainer jets into attack aircraft, KAI originally developed the T-50 platform with FA-50 capabilities in mind. “Even though the aircraft serves as a trainer, we embedded fighter-level redundancy and systems from the design stage,” he explained.
In addition to fixed-wing aircraft, KAI is offering its Korean utility helicopter to support Iraq’s rotary-wing requirements. Park also noted growing interest in the company's next-generation unmanned aerial vehicle, which is currently under development.
He added that KAI’s booth drew significant attention from Iraqi officials and aeronautics students alike, particularly those interested in manned-unmanned teaming and next-gen technologies. “We are happy to be here and hope to contribute to strengthening the Iraqi Air Force’s capabilities,” Park said.
For more details, watch the full interview below: