Revolutionizing Air Combat: Hanwha Systems Launches Cutting-Edge AESA Radar for KF-21 Fighter Jets
Hanwha Systems has finalized the launch of the inaugural mass-produced active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for South Korea’s next-generation KF-21 fighter aircraft, signifying a notable achievement in the country’s effort to cultivate advanced fighter avionics domestically.
The launch ceremony, organized by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) and hosted by Hanwha Systems, took place on August 5 at the company’s Yongin R&D Center.
The gathering attracted over 50 participants, including high-ranking officials from the Republic of Korea Air Force, DAPA, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), and other prominent government and defense organizations.
After an initial production agreement was established last year, Hanwha Systems secured the complete contract earlier this year. Under this initiative, the company is set to supply 40 AESA radar units from 2025 to 2028 for integration into the KF-21.
Commonly described as the “vision” of a fighter aircraft, AESA radars offer simultaneous multi-mission functionalities, encompassing tracking of aerial, terrestrial, and maritime objectives. In comparison to traditional mechanically scanned radars, AESA technology facilitates quicker target acquisition, wider coverage, and improved survivability by concurrently addressing multiple threats.
Hanwha Systems initiated radar development in 2016 and presented its initial prototype in 2020—merely four years after development began—showcasing its domestic radar capabilities to the international defense sector. With the commencement of mass production, the radar is now prepared for incorporation into the KF-21.
The launch occurred at a newly finished antenna testing facility at the Yongin R&D Center. Finalized in late 2024 specifically for AESA radar development, this facility features a Near-Field Chamber capable of assessing up to four airborne radar systems concurrently. It is designed to evaluate fundamental performance metrics and signal characteristics of AESA antenna arrays, each comprising roughly 1000 transmit/receive (T/R) modules.
“Hanwha Systems is the sole company in Korea to have successfully developed, mass-produced, and exported AESA radar systems,” stated Hyuk Park, Head of Hanwha Systems’ Defense Electronics (DE) Division. “We are broadening our global influence with adaptable radar solutions customized for a diverse array of platforms—from light fighters to unmanned aerial vehicles.”
In May 2024, Hanwha Systems entered into its first export agreement for AESA radar antennas with Leonardo, a prominent European defense and aerospace corporation. The contract encompasses radar systems for light attack aircraft, marking the beginning of Korea’s radar exports.
