In a move to advance self-reliance in aerospace technology, Hanwha Aerospace and the Korea Institute of Materials Science (KIMS) have launched a joint innovation center to develop core materials for aircraft engines. Situated in Changwon, the facility underscores South Korea’s ambition to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and build a fully localized supply base for high-performance propulsion systems.
The research hub will concentrate on producing next-generation alloys and coatings for use in both manned and unmanned aircraft engines. Efforts will focus on forging techniques and heat-resistant surface coatings involving nickel and titanium alloys, materials that form the backbone of advanced turbofan engine technology. KIMS will utilize its cutting-edge testing capabilities, including ultra-high-temperature endurance systems, to accelerate material validation and certification.
The new center supports a comprehensive development-to-production pipeline, covering R&D, testing, evaluation, and industrial-scale manufacturing. By combining KIMS’ research expertise with Hanwha’s industrial capabilities, the initiative aims to solidify South Korea’s position in the global aerospace supply chain and boost competitiveness in next-generation engine technologies.
Hanwha Aerospace’s momentum in this field was further demonstrated at the Farnborough Airshow 2024, where it showcased its indigenous turbofan engine for the KF-21 Boramae fighter and future unmanned platforms. Offering 15,000 pounds of thrust, the homegrown engine matches the size of the F414-GE-400 currently in service but delivers superior power and efficiency—paving the way for full domestic replacement of imported propulsion systems in South Korea’s defense aircraft.
