South Korea has awarded L3Harris Technologies a contract worth over $2.26 billion to supply modified Global 6500 aircraft for airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) missions.
The planes are designed to fly higher, farther, and faster, improving Seoul’s ability to monitor its airspace and respond quickly to potential threats.
Their radar systems, proven in real-world operations, will help detect and track aerial targets, while the communications suite will enable links with US, NATO, and other coalition forces.
Upon entering service, the new platforms will join the Republic of Korea Air Force’s existing fleet of Boeing E-7 Wedgetails, expanding surveillance coverage.
In addition to Global 6500 developer Bombardier, the program involves partnerships with Israel Aerospace Industries’ ELTA subsidiary for mission components and Korean Air for related assembly.
Adopting ‘Go-to Choice’
According to the consortium, the initiative provides advanced systems that will “strengthen mission effectiveness for a key American ally in the Indo-Pacific region.”
“We are extremely pleased that the Bombardier Global 6500 will help the Republic of Korea Air Force defend its borders with L3Harris’ solution,” said Éric Martel, CEO and president of Bombardier.
“Amid rising geopolitical tensions, this aircraft is the go-to choice for governments seeking to modernize their capabilities, with the reliability and performance to support the most demanding missions.”
Local Industry Role
Korean Air Aerospace Division Head Jin Kyu Lim specified that his company will oversee modification, integration, and maintenance, supporting the East Asian country’s domestic aerospace capabilities.
The firm will coordinate with additional local organizations to operate and sustain the AEW&C airframes, with potential involvement in future production.
“As a leader in the domestic aerospace industry, we are committed to building a robust special mission aircraft sector and contributing to the nation’s defense capabilities,” Lim said.
The Global 6500
The Global 6500 is powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl engines, giving it a maximum speed of Mach 0.9 (1,111 kilometers/691 miles per hour), a flight altitude above 15,500 meters (50,853 feet), and a range of over 12,000 kilometers (7,456 miles).
The aircraft measures 30 meters (98 feet) in length with a 29-meter (95-foot) wingspan. Its basic operating weight is around 23,600 kilograms (52,029 pounds), has a maximum payload of 2,600 kilograms (5,732 pounds), and can carry 17 passengers.
Bombardier’s proprietary Vision flight deck equips the jet with four large displays, a combined vision system, a head-up display, graphical flight planning, an airport moving map, and weather radar.
The aircraft also supports GPS-dependent signal broadcasts, satellite communications, and performance-based navigation standards.
