The production site of the KAI FA-50 fighter jet in Sacheon, Gyeongnam./KAI

The Korea AeroSpace Administration is seeking ways for domestic corporations to participate in the global civil aircraft development market.

On the 26th, the Korea AeroSpace Administration held a meeting at its headquarters in Sacheon, Gyeongnam, to promote international joint development of civil aircraft (RSP). The meeting discussed how global aircraft manufacturers and the domestic aviation industry could form 'Team Korea' together.

The Korea AeroSpace Administration plans to participate in the production of civil aircraft using the RSP method. RSP is a business system in which domestic aviation manufacturers participate in joint development to share the development costs and risks, and in return, they hold supply rights for the developed items for 20 to 30 years upon mass production. The Korea AeroSpace Administration aims to unite the capabilities of domestic aviation corporations by forming 'Team Korea', and based on this, is pushing for negotiations with aircraft manufacturers to secure quantities.

Domestic corporations attending the meeting suggested measures to enhance the RSP operational system, establish an RSP dedicated fund, and expand exports. They also requested that the government increase research and development investments to develop the technologies required for RSP participation and reduce the financial burden of facility establishment.

Han Chang-hun, director of the Korea AeroSpace Administration's aerospace industry division, said, 'We will create an opportunity for Korea to leap from a manufacturer of civil aircraft components to a joint development partner,' adding, 'We will closely collaborate with the industry to ensure the success of the RSP project, which will secure 30 years of food for the domestic aviation manufacturing industry.'