South Korea launches electronic warfare aircraft project worth over $1 billion (Photo: KAI)
South Korea has launched a $1.29 billion program to develop a dedicated electronic warfare aircraft designed to block enemy air defense and command networks by 2034.
According to a report from Defence Blog, the announcement was made by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). The agency discussed the development plan during a formal meeting with LIG Nex1, one of South Korea’s major defense contractors.
The project, known as Block-I, will focus on developing large, dedicated electronic warfare aircraft capable of degrading an adversary’s integrated air defense systems and electronic command networks through sustained jamming operations.
The program represents one of the largest investments by Seoul in electronic warfare capabilities and reflects growing concerns over increasingly dense air defense environments in Northeast Asia.
DAPA also stated that the aircraft is intended to support joint operations, enhancing the survivability of South Korean and allied air assets operating in contested airspace.
According to the current plan, the Block-I aircraft is scheduled to enter service in 2034. The announcement comes as South Korea continues to expand its defense budget and invest in cutting-edge resources, including long-range strike systems, missile defense, and space surveillance.
Seoul has repeatedly stated that future conflicts will heavily depend on information dominance and the ability to operate in contested electromagnetic environments.
Photo: KAI. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
