IRIA News

4 minute read

South Korea has signed a contract worth more than $2.26 billion with U.S. defense company L3Harris Technologies to supply modified Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft for airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) missions, strengthening Seoul’s airspace monitoring and defense capabilities.

The deal, announced on October 20, 2025, will see the Republic of Korea Air Force receive a new fleet of AEW&C jets equipped with advanced radar and communication systems to detect and track aerial threats more effectively. The aircraft will also enhance interoperability with U.S., NATO, and allied forces operating in the Indo-Pacific region.

The new Global 6500-based AEW&C aircraft are designed to fly higher, farther, and faster than existing platforms, offering greater endurance and range for extended operations. L3Harris will lead integration and mission system development, while Bombardier will supply the Global 6500 airframes.

Israel Aerospace Industries’ (IAI) ELTA Systems will provide radar and sensor technologies, and Korean Air will handle modification, integration, and maintenance within South Korea. The partnership will give Seoul improved real-time situational awareness, faster response capability, and more resilient communication links across its defense network.

Christopher Kubasik, chair and CEO of L3Harris, said the project underscores the company’s long-term commitment to supporting allies in the Indo-Pacific. “L3Harris is ready to deliver an advanced aircraft fleet that will strengthen mission effectiveness for a key American ally in the region,” he said. “We look forward to collaborating with the Republic of Korea to develop, test, integrate, and sustain this vital capability for years to come.”

Global Collaboration

The deal involves multiple international partners. Bombardier will provide its Global 6500 jets as the base airframes, known for their speed and range. Éric Martel, Bombardier’s president and CEO, described the aircraft as the “go-to choice for governments seeking to modernize their capabilities.”

“Amid rising geopolitical tensions, this aircraft will help the Republic of Korea Air Force defend its borders with L3Harris’ solution,” Martel said. “Its reliability and performance make it ideal for the most demanding missions.”

Israel Aerospace Industries also emphasized its role in providing radar systems through its ELTA subsidiary. Boaz Levy, IAI’s president and CEO, highlighted the company’s experience in developing advanced airborne sensors. “Our team’s special mission aircraft integrates innovative solutions such as sensor miniaturization and AESA radar technology, enabling success even in the most challenging missions,” he said.

Expanding Air Force Capabilities

Once operational, the new aircraft will join the Republic of Korea Air Force’s existing fleet of Boeing E-7 Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, expanding surveillance coverage across the Korean Peninsula and surrounding seas. The fleet will play a critical role in detecting enemy aircraft, drones, and missiles, especially amid growing regional tensions involving North Korea and China.

The AEW&C jets will also support joint operations and intelligence sharing with U.S. and allied forces, reinforcing South Korea’s position as a key defense partner in the Indo-Pacific.

Korean Air’s Aerospace Division will play a central role in modifying and maintaining the aircraft domestically. The company aims to strengthen its position in South Korea’s growing defense aviation sector.

“Throughout this collaboration, Korean Air will enhance its capabilities in modification, integration, and maintenance for the latest special mission aircraft,” said Jin Kyu Lim, head of the division. “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.”

The project includes industrial participation from South Korean firms that are expected to help operate and sustain the fleet and could be involved in future manufacturing. This aligns with Seoul’s strategy to expand its domestic aerospace capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

Technical Features of the Global 6500

Powered by Rolls-Royce Pearl engines, the Bombardier Global 6500 can reach speeds up to Mach 0.9 (about 1,111 kilometers per hour) and fly at altitudes above 15,500 meters. The aircraft has a range of over 12,000 kilometers, enabling long-endurance missions without refueling.

The 30-meter-long jet has a wingspan of 29 meters and a basic operating weight of approximately 23,600 kilograms. It features Bombardier’s Vision flight deck, which includes large displays, a combined vision system, a head-up display, graphical flight planning, and advanced weather radar. Its communications suite supports satellite links, GPS-based navigation, and modern data-sharing standards, allowing seamless coordination between multiple defense networks.

Strengthening Regional Security

The AEW&C program reflects South Korea’s efforts to modernize its defense systems amid evolving regional threats. The partnership between L3Harris, Bombardier, IAI, and Korean Air is expected to deepen industrial cooperation and technological exchange across North America, the Middle East, and East Asia.

With the addition of the Global 6500-based surveillance jets, South Korea will significantly enhance its early warning, command, and control capabilities, providing a critical edge in maintaining stability and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.