KAI Signs 82.6 Billion KRW Contract for Three Training Systems

Korea Forest Service KA-32T, Air Force T-50 and TA-50 Block 2 Training System Project

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Je-hoon] Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced on the 30th that it signed a contract with the Gangwon Regional Procurement Office on the 26th for the KA-32T flight simulator introduction project, and with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration on the 27th for the T-50 simulator project and the TA-50 Block 2 training system project.

The total amount KAI secured in this contract is approximately 82.6 billion KRW. The flight simulator for the Korea Forest Service is scheduled for completion by 2022, and the T-50 series training systems (T-50, TA-50 Block 2) by the first half of 2023.

The training system includes simulators capable of virtual training, mission support systems, and teaching materials, providing a training system that shortens education periods and costs through realistic training experiences and enables systematic education and training. The T-50 series training system allows for advanced flight and tactical introductory training for Air Force pilots, while the Forest Service helicopter training system supports training for forest pilots in wildfire suppression, aerial pest control, and search and rescue operations.

A KAI official stated, "We have delivered more than 50 sets of training systems to 15 domestic and international bases so far, verifying excellent training effectiveness," and added, "We will develop and deliver optimal training systems to cultivate elite Air Force pilots and ensure flight safety for the Korea Forest Service."

Meanwhile, KAI plans to expand its business into future-oriented training systems with high potential demand by integrating advanced technologies and extending into non-aviation sectors. Since 2016, KAI has been developing a Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) synthetic battlefield training system model that organically connects simulators and aircraft, incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies to enable realistic training scenarios on the ground.

In addition, KAI is currently conducting a development project for submarine pilot training equipment systems and plans to continuously expand its market in maritime training systems such as high-speed landing craft and deep-sea rescue submersible simulators.