Hanwha Aerospace has officially started a major aircraft engine development program with support from the Korea AeroSpace Administration.
The project focuses on developing South Korea’s first domestically manufactured turbofan engine for both civilian and military aircraft. The engine will mainly support next-generation drones, small aircraft and future combat systems.
The launch meeting for the project took place at the space agency’s headquarters in Sacheon, South Gyeongsang Province.
Hanwha Aerospace will lead the program alongside the Korea Aerospace Research Institute, universities and smaller technology firms. The development target is a 4,500-pound-force-class engine ready by 2029.
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The engine is being designed as a high-bypass turbofan, a configuration commonly used in modern aircraft because it offers better fuel efficiency and lower noise. High-bypass engines move a large amount of air around the engine core instead of through it. This makes them suitable for both commercial aviation and military support aircraft.
One of the key features of the new engine is an integrated starter generator mounted directly on the engine shaft. This system will allow the engine to generate up to 100 kilowatts of electricity while also reducing overall weight. Engineers believe this design will improve aircraft efficiency and support advanced onboard systems.
The growing demand for electrical power inside aircraft is becoming an important challenge for aerospace companies worldwide.
Turbofan Supports Combat Systems
Modern drones and future combat aircraft require significant power for artificial intelligence processing, radar systems, and electronic warfare equipment. Higher onboard power generation is now considered a major advantage for next-generation military aviation platforms.
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Hanwha Aerospace said the engine will support future unmanned aircraft programs, including collaborative combat aircraft. These aircraft are designed to fly alongside manned fighter jets and perform missions such as surveillance, electronic warfare and strike operations. Several countries, including the United States, are investing heavily in these systems as part of future air combat strategies.
The global market for unmanned aircraft engines is still developing, giving new manufacturers a chance to secure an early position. Industry forecasts show that more than 3,000 collaborative combat aircraft could enter service worldwide by the 2040s.
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Hanwha Aerospace aims to use this project to strengthen South Korea’s aerospace independence and expand its role in the global defense aviation sector.
Park Hee-ho, chief technology officer of Hanwha Aerospace’s aviation business division, said the company plans to secure advanced engine technology before the market becomes fully competitive.
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He added that the project will help improve South Korea’s unmanned defense capabilities and support future export opportunities. The company sees the program as an important step toward building a complete domestic aircraft engine ecosystem.
South Korea has long depended on foreign suppliers for advanced aircraft engines and propulsion systems. Developing a local engine program gives the country more control over defense technologies and supply chains. It also supports long-term goals to expand domestic aerospace manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported military systems.
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The project reflects the growing global race to develop smarter and more autonomous aircraft systems. Countries are investing heavily in drones equipped with advanced sensors, communication systems, and artificial intelligence tools.
Hanwha Aerospace’s new turbofan engine program positions South Korea to compete in this rapidly expanding aerospace market over the coming decades.
