S.Korean fighter jet FA-50 flies for first time in Europe

South Korea’s sole military aircraft manufacturer Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI)'s FA-50 light fighters successfully made their debut in Europe. 

Marking the Polish Armed Forces Day on August 15, KAI announced that its first two FA-50GF jets, recently delivered to the Polish Air Force, had taken off from Mińsk Mazowiecki Air Base, flying impressively over Warsaw.

In a significant maneuver, the aircraft flew in formation with Poland's Mig-29 fighter jet before seamlessly transitioning as the Mig left the formation, underlining the FA-50's adaptability and prowess.

"Security is the cornerstone of any nation," Polish President Andrzej Duda said. "Through modernization with the latest weapon systems, the Polish military will possess an unmatched and strong defense capability."

"Having been a recipient of foreign fighter jet aid in the past, South Korea has now rewritten its aviation narrative," KAI's CEO Kang Goo-young commented. 

He further emphasized KAI’s global footprint, stating, "Our global post-support capability oversees more than 660 aircraft. We’re committed to reinforcing the Polish Air Force's aerial dominance."

The FA-50GF, after its triumphant initial flight in Poland, is set to feature at the Radom Airshow from Aug. 26-27. Two more units, FA-50GF No. 3 and 4, are slated for September delivery, with a total of 12 aircraft expected by the end of this year.

KAI confirms that of the 48 aircraft contracted by Poland, 36 will meet specific Polish Air Force requirements and will be the enhanced FA-50PL version, scheduled for delivery from late 2025 through 2028.

By Hyung-Kyu Kim 

khk@hankyung.com