Hanwha Aerospace and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) have announced a partnership to jointly develop and manufacture Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for the global defense market. The agreement aims to enhance technological cooperation and expand operational capabilities in the field of unmanned aviation.
The collaboration follows a flight demonstration conducted in 2024, in which a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) UAS was launched from the Republic of Korea Navy’s amphibious landing ship, ROKS Dokdo. The test, held off the coast of Pohang, South Korea, demonstrated the system’s ability to operate from naval platforms with aircraft-handling capabilities.
GA-ASI noted that the demonstration highlighted the Gray Eagle STOL’s potential for deployment on various ship types, providing additional operational options for the U.S. and allied forces in multi-domain operations.
Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group, described unmanned systems as a key area for the company’s defense strategy. He stated that the partnership with GA-ASI is intended to support South Korea’s defense industry, strengthen its position in the global UAS market, and contribute to defense cooperation with the United States.
GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue also commented on the agreement, describing it as an opportunity to further expand collaboration. He noted that the previous flight demonstration had been well received by the Republic of Korea Navy and emphasized Hanwha’s interest in advancing a UAS business alongside GA-ASI in both Korea and the U.S.
The partnership reflects broader efforts to develop and integrate unmanned systems for military applications, as demand for such technologies continues to grow worldwide.