South Korea Hires L3Harris to Modernize Airborne Warning Fleet with Global 6500 Jets

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South Korea hires L3Harris to modernize its air surveillance fleet with Global 6500 jets
South Korea hires L3Harris to modernize its air surveillance fleet with Global 6500 jets (X @L3HarrisTech)

L3Harris has officially received a contract from South Korea to provide and modify four Bombardier Global 6500 business jets for the AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) program. Two of the jets will be modified with the help of L3Harris, while the other two will undergo modifications locally.

The project, valued at $2.6 billion, includes the installation of the EL/W-2085 AESA radar from Israel Aerospace Industries, along with other necessary systems, with delivery expected by 2032. Korean Air will be responsible for purchasing the aircraft and jointly developing two jets, as well as managing the local modifications of the other two.

The program is also linked to South Korea’s electronic warfare initiatives, including the development of airborne jamming aircraft. For this purpose, L3Harris presented concepts for conformal systems and ISTAR platforms in scale models, while Korean Air will enhance its capabilities for modifying, integrating, and maintaining these special aircraft.

Reports highlight that the new AEW&C aircraft will be capable of flying faster, operating for longer periods, and at higher altitudes, providing more efficient threat detection and tracking, with interoperability with the U.S., NATO, and coalition partners.

Executives from the companies involved emphasized the strategic importance of the project. Christopher Kubasik of L3Harris stated that the advanced fleet will strengthen mission effectiveness for South Korea, a key ally in the Indo-Pacific region. Bombardier highlighted the reliability of the Global 6500 for complex operations, while IAI pointed out the next-generation AESA radar and proven special mission technologies. For Korean Air, the program represents an opportunity to consolidate its expertise in special aircraft and contribute to national defense.

Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @L3HarrisTech | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team

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