Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), is now setting its sights on making inroads into emerging nations with growing defense needs.
KAI, is showcasing a wide range of indigenous aircraft models at the Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX).
KAI's models on display include T-50 supersonic trainer,KT-1 basic trainer, FA-50 light attack fighter modified from T-50 and the light utility helicopter Surion.
KAI officials said foreign military officials and buyers have been showing interest in their trainer jets and FA-50 at the aerospace fair.
South Korea is set to export 12 FA-50s, a light attack variant of T-50, to the Philippines, expecting to sign a deal by the end of this year and negotiations are currently under way to sell trainers to such countries as Iraq and Poland next year, with Botswana as a potential buyer of trainer jets.
KAI and Lockheed Martin are also gearing up for a lucrative U.S. Air Force competition for at least 300 T-50s worth several billion dollars.
South Korea is also planning to develop a much larger indigenous fighter jet program with the help of U.S. defense contractors, although that has been delayed due to budget constraints and questions over its feasibility.
The KFX project aims to build F-16 class fighter jets to replace the Air Force's aging fleet of F-4 and F-5 fighter planes.
yonhapnews
