Innovative Partnership: Hanwha and GA-ASI Set to Revolutionize Global UAS Technology
Hanwha Aerospace and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) have formed a partnership to jointly advance and manufacture Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for the international defense sector.
This partnership follows a successful flight trial in 2024 when the firms deployed a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) UAS from the South Korean navy’s amphibious assault vessel ROKS Dokdo (LPH-6111) while navigating in waters off the coast of Pohang, South Korea. This demonstration showcased the capability of the Gray Eagle STOL to operate aboard various aircraft-capable vessels, creating new opportunities for the U.S. and its allies to facilitate multi-domain operations.
“Hanwha Aerospace regards unmanned systems as a vital component for the future of defense. Through our collaboration with GA-ASI, we aspire to bolster sovereign defense capabilities, enhance Korea’s footprint in the global UAS industry, and contribute to a stronger ROK-US alliance,” stated Dong Kwan Kim, Vice Chairman of Hanwha Group.
“We’re thrilled to broaden and deepen our business alliance with Hanwha,” remarked GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue, who oversaw the at-sea demonstration on November 12, 2024. “Our test flight with Gray Eagle STOL received positive feedback from the Republic of Korea Navy, and we’re confident that Hanwha is poised to invest in expanding a UAS venture with GA-ASI in both Korea and the U.S.”
With this agreement, Hanwha plans to enter the unmanned aircraft systems sector, which is forecasted to reach 5 trillion KRW worldwide by 2040.
Domestic Production and Investment
Hanwha Aerospace intends to invest over 750 billion KRW in the development and production facilities for Gray Eagle STOL and UAS engines, establishing research and development, as well as production infrastructure in South Korea and in collaboration with GA-ASI in the U.S.
The company aims to create employment opportunities by recruiting expertise in relevant sectors and develop a domestic UAS industry ecosystem in Korea by identifying local suppliers of components and materials.
The firms target to achieve the first flight in early 2027, with plans to expand into international markets.
Comprehensive Partnership for Advanced UAS Capabilities
The Gray Eagle STOL stands as the sole medium-altitude, long-endurance aircraft of its kind, capable of operating without a catapult or arresting gear from flight deck-equipped vessels such as aircraft carriers. It is also adept at functioning from unpaved surfaces such as roads, beaches, and parking lots.
With a payload capacity of 1.6 tons, the Gray Eagle STOL can undertake a range of missions, including reconnaissance and combat operations, depending on the equipment setup.
Previously referred to internally by GA-ASI as Mojave, Gray Eagle STOL utilizes extensive commonality with the well-established, in-production Gray Eagle 25M airframe. This offers a highly capable new aircraft at significantly reduced costs and technical risks compared to a completely new design.
The aircraft has achieved various first-of-their-kind aviation milestones, including the flight from ROKS Dokdo, launch and recovery aboard the British aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales (09), live fire evaluations at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, among others.
