Hanwha Aerospace has teamed up with South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD) to expand its lineup of domestically developed aircraft engines for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The initiative aims to secure independent defense capabilities and lay the foundation for future defense exports by developing core UAV engine technology without relying on foreign imports.
The company announced on July 1 that it has been selected to lead a project overseen by ADD, titled “Development of Prototype Propeller-Powered Aircraft Engines and Certification Demonstration Technology.” The goal is to develop a 1,400-horsepower-class turboprop engine for next-generation Medium-Altitude Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (MUAVs) by 2028 using entirely homegrown technologies.
In addition to engine development, the project will also establish quality certification and demonstration systems that meet Initial Flight Release (IFR) standards—paving the way for future UAV operational deployment and contributing to the growth of Korea’s aerospace industry ecosystem.
UAV engine technology is subject to stringent global export restrictions, such as the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), and Export Licensing (EL) regimes. As a result, developing indigenous technologies is essential for ensuring self-reliant defense capabilities and enhancing global competitiveness in defense exports.
Beyond this initiative, Hanwha Aerospace is also collaborating with ADD on other major projects, including the development of 5,500-pound and 10,000-pound thrust-class turbofan engines for various UAV platforms. The company aims to eventually expand its capabilities into engine development for manned fighter jets and commercial aircraft.
Hanwha is also preparing for the long-term goal of independently developing a 16,000-pound-class military aircraft engine—capable of producing 24,000 pounds of thrust with afterburners—for South Korea’s next-generation fighter jet program, in line with government plans.
“Our strength lies in possessing the country’s only full-cycle capabilities in aircraft engine development—from design and manufacturing to certification and maintenance,” the company stated. “By independently developing various UAV engines, we are committed to advancing national defense autonomy and contributing to Korea’s defense export competitiveness.”
