Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced on November 17 that it is participating in the UAE Dubai Airshow— the largest aviation and defense exhibition in the Middle East—held from November 17 to 21 (local time), where it is conducting extensive marketing activities.
First launched in 1986 with 200 companies and 25 aircraft, the Dubai Airshow has grown into the largest event of its kind in the MENA (Middle East & North Africa) region. As of 2023, more than 1,500 aerospace and defense companies participated, showcasing over 200 military and commercial aircraft and attracting approximately 150,000 visitors.
At this year’s exhibition, KAI is placing strong emphasis on promoting its next-generation fighter KF-21. The company is also showcasing its core platforms, including the FA-50 light attack aircraft, the Surion helicopter, the Light Armed Helicopter (LAH), and its future-oriented K-Space portfolio such as ultra-small SAR satellites. Additionally, KAI is presenting unmanned systems unveiled at the recent ADEX—such as the “KAILOT” featuring an AI pilot, UCAVs, and APP—highlighting KAI’s vision for integrated manned–unmanned operations on the future battlefield.
The UAE is considered a highly promising strategic partner for KAI, with potential to become a key hub for Korean defense exports in the Middle East. Interest in the KF-21 has been rising in the UAE, and KAI has been pursuing deeper defense and technology cooperation. Earlier this year, the UAE Air Force visited KAI’s headquarters to tour the KF-21 production line, and Al Sahhran Al-Nuaimi, Commander of the UAE Air Force Combat Center, even boarded the KF-21 during the visit.
KAI’s KT-1 and T-50 aircraft are already operated by several Middle Eastern and African countries, including Iraq, Türkiye, and Senegal, where their high availability rates have earned strong praise. Last year, KAI also achieved its first export of the KUH helicopter by delivering two units to Iraq.
KAI CEO Cha Jae-byung said, “With our aircraft operating reliably across Southeast Asia, South America, and Europe, interest from Middle Eastern and African markets—particularly the UAE—is rapidly increasing. We will continue to expand exports and foster long-term strategic partnerships in the global defense sector.”
