Photo = Hanwha Aerospace

 

[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] Hanwha Aerospace has increased its stake in Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to 5.09% after acquiring an additional 100,000 shares, crossing the 5% threshold that triggers a change in investment purpose from “passive” to “active participation.”

The company said it is currently reviewing specific plans for management involvement. Hanwha Aerospace also plans to invest a total of KRW 500 billion by year-end to further expand its stake. Based on recent share prices, its ownership could rise to around 6.4%.

Hanwha explained that the move aims to strengthen cooperation in defense and aerospace sectors and enhance global export competitiveness. The company added that it may consider options such as acquisition or integration in line with potential government-led privatization discussions involving KAI.

Both companies already collaborate on key projects, including KF-21 exports, air-to-air missile development, and helicopter upgrades. In February, they signed an MOU covering joint development of advanced aircraft engines, unmanned systems, and expansion into the global commercial space market.

Hanwha Aerospace highlighted strong strategic fit, combining its capabilities in ground defense, engines, avionics, and space launch systems with KAI’s expertise as Korea’s sole aircraft manufacturer and satellite developer.

The partnership is also expected to support the development of an aerospace and defense cluster in the Changwon–Sacheon region and contribute to job creation, as both companies pursue a “one-team” strategy to compete with increasingly consolidated global defense players.

 

 

 

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