Hanwha Aerospace and the Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS) have opened a joint innovation center to strengthen South Korea’s self-reliance in aircraft engine materials.
Located in Changwon, the center will focus on localizing production and developing advanced alloys crucial for aircraft and unmanned aerial systems.
The collaboration will emphasize technologies for forging, precision processing, and heat-resistant coatings for nickel and titanium alloys.
KIMS will provide access to state-of-the-art research facilities, including ultra-high-temperature testing labs, enabling end-to-end development and evaluation.
This initiative aligns with Seoul’s national strategy to reduce dependence on imported technologies and boost indigenous aerospace capabilities.
Hanwha’s self-developed turbofan, introduced at the Farnborough Airshow 2024, delivers 15,000 pounds of thrust — surpassing the KF-21’s current F414-GE-400 powerplant — marking a key milestone toward a fully domestic engine.
