A civilian business jet is being transformed into South Korea’s first stand-off electronic warfare aircraft, as LIG Nex1 takes the lead on a major new military aviation program. The initiative represents a strategic leap in the country’s ability to conduct electronic attack and signal intelligence missions from a safe distance.
The 1.56 trillion won ($1.1 billion) project was recently approved by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, with a target delivery date set for June 2034. The aircraft will be adapted from a Bombardier business jet platform, enabling long-endurance operations while carrying a sophisticated electronic warfare payload.
LIG Nex1 will develop the core EW mission suite, including systems designed to jam, deceive, and monitor enemy radar and command networks. Korean Air will support the effort by managing aircraft modification, systems integration, and overall production of the platform.
South Korea has historically relied on electronic warfare pods and systems mounted on combat aircraft, limiting endurance and operational flexibility. Rising electronic threats from North Korea, including repeated GPS signal disruptions lasting hundreds of days, have accelerated demand for a dedicated stand-off solution. Frequently compared to the EA-37B Compass Call, the program is widely viewed as one of the most complex and ambitious defense projects ever undertaken by South Korea.
