Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) held talks with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Investment (MISA) on potential cooperation in the space sector during the World Defense Show 2026 (WDS 2026) in Riyadh.
The meeting, held on Feb. 10 (local time), was attended by KAI President Cha Jae-byung and Khalid A. AlFalih, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment. The two sides discussed collaboration opportunities in future industries such as space, satellite communications and aviation, aligned with Saudi Arabia’s national development roadmap, Vision 2030. MISA oversees foreign investment attraction and strategic industrial projects in the Kingdom.
KAI has maintained cooperation with Saudi Arabia in aerospace and space-related fields. In October 2023, the company signed a memorandum of understanding with the Saudi Space Agency to advance joint initiatives in technology development, commercialization and startup investment. During WDS 2026, KAI also held separate discussions with the Saudi Space Agency to reaffirm strategic cooperation.
Cha said Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner not only for K-defense platforms such as the KF-21 but also for expanding Korea’s space industry presence overseas, adding that the company will propose optimal cooperation models in line with Vision 2030.
KAI established Korea’s first private space center in 2020 and has been expanding satellite production and export projects based on various platforms, including next-generation medium satellites, 6G communication satellites and small satellites. The company has participated in government-led satellite programs such as multipurpose satellites, geostationary satellites and the 425 reconnaissance satellite project. Two next-generation medium satellites are scheduled for launch this year.
At WDS 2026, KAI showcased its flagship aircraft, including the KF-21 fighter, FA-50 light combat aircraft and LAH light armed helicopter, as well as next-generation air combat systems incorporating manned-unmanned teaming. A small synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellite was also displayed.
KAI said it plans to leverage its aircraft export network in Southeast Asia, the Middle East and South America to pursue package exports combining aircraft and satellite solutions, aiming to expand Korea’s presence in the global space market.
