Korean Air's Expanding Role in UAV Development & Global Partnerships
Korean Air, widely recognized globally for its commercial airline operations, is rapidly solidifying its position as a pivotal player in the advanced aerospace and defense sector, particularly through its extensive involvement in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) development. The company’s aerospace division, KAL-ASD, is actively engaged in a diverse range of drone projects, signaling a significant strategic shift beyond traditional aviation and maintenance services.
A cornerstone of Korean Air’s drone portfolio is the KUS-FS, a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle. This sophisticated drone, developed jointly by KAL-ASD and the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), commenced its maiden flight in 2012 and successfully completed its development in March 2022. Boasting impressive specifications, the KUS-FS measures approximately 13 meters in length with a 25-meter wingspan, capable of remaining airborne for up to 24 hours. Its performance capabilities are often compared to the formidable MQ-9 Reaper, underscoring its strategic importance for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
Korean Air has consistently showcased its leadership in the unmanned systems domain at major industry events. At the 2023 ADEX (Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition), the company unveiled a broad spectrum of cutting-edge platforms, including a multi-purpose stealth UAV, a low-observable drone squadron, and tactical division-level drones. Beyond current capabilities, Korean Air is proactively investing in the future of air combat by initiating research into Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) technology, with a dedicated focus on enhancing stealth performance and structural integrity for next-generation combat drones.
Further demonstrating its commitment to advanced aerial warfare concepts, Korean Air is a key participant in the Stealth UAV Squadron project. This initiative is designed to enable manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T), a revolutionary concept where human-piloted fighter jets operate seamlessly alongside autonomous drones. These stealth UAV squadrons are envisioned to provide crucial support and escort services for frontline combat aircraft, significantly enhancing operational effectiveness and pilot safety in complex mission environments. The company’s innovation extends to naval applications as well, with reports indicating the showcasing of a next-generation maritime UAV at the 2025 MADEX (International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition), highlighting its versatility across different operational domains.
A particularly noteworthy development in early August 2025 cemented Korean Air’s global ambitions in the UAV sector: a strategic partnership with Anduril Industries, a prominent U.S.-based AI defense technology firm. This collaboration is set to encompass joint development of unmanned aircraft, licensed production, export initiatives, and the establishment of a local production hub, dubbed “Arsenal South Korea,” targeting both the Korean and broader Asia-Pacific markets. This alliance signifies Korean Air’s intent to not only develop advanced drone technology but also to become a major manufacturer and exporter on the international stage.
In essence, Korean Air is undergoing a profound transformation, evolving from a traditional airline and maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) provider into a formidable aerospace enterprise. Its deep engagement in the development of advanced unmanned systems, including MALE UAVs, stealth combat drones, and sophisticated manned-unmanned teaming capabilities, positions it as a pivotal force in shaping the future of aerial combat and defense technology. The recent partnership with Anduril Industries further underscores its strategic vision and expanding global footprint in this rapidly advancing field.