Lockheed Martin and Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 2025 Paris Air Show on 17 June, to broaden their current collaboration on air systems. The expanded cooperation will now include rotorcraft manufacturing, next-generation platform development, space systems, crewed–uncrewed teaming, uncrewed aerial vehicles, training devices, and sustainment.

The MoU builds on a long-standing partnership spanning over 30 years, which began with F-16 licensed production and has since evolved to include the T-50 supersonic advanced jet trainer, FA-50 light attack aircraft, KF-21 multirole fighter, and logistics support.

KAI maintains a strong and enduring partnership with Lockheed Martin through joint development, technical cooperation, and industrial collaboration. 

This extended agreement is expected to further deepen cooperation in the existing aircraft and fighter markets, including the United States and allied nations worldwide.

The two companies have already started identifying new opportunities for collaboration, including ongoing efforts to support the T-50 and FA-50 export programmes—such as participation in the U.S. Navy Undergraduate Jet Training System.

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