Hanwha Aerospace expands unmanned aerial vehicle focus
The aerospace and defense firm targets a global market expected to grow by 2030.
The aerospace and defense company Hanwha Aerospace is prioritizing the development of engines for cruise missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. The company intends to establish an independent engine platform ranging from small to medium and large sizes by leveraging its existing manufacturing capabilities.
To secure development capabilities for unmanned aircraft, the company established a joint development partnership with GA-ASI, a leading American firm. This strategy aims to create a proprietary unmanned aircraft platform tailored to global demand and domestic security needs. The company plans to expand its current production of aircraft components into the delivery of complete unmanned systems to enter the global market.
In the defense sector, the company has integrated its operations through the absorption of Hanwha Defense in November 2022 and Hanwha Defense in April 2023. This consolidation allows the firm to develop weapon systems across fire, mobility, and anti-aircraft sectors. The company reports that the 2026 domestic defense budget is 7.5% higher than the 2025 level.
Within the aviation segment, the company participates in the Risk and Revenue Sharing Program with P&W, a partnership started in 2015. The company says this program allows it to share profits and revenue based on its ownership stake, which improves profitability as aftermarket sales increase.
Regarding space operations, the company plans to start global commercial launch services after it completes the development of its own small launch vehicle. The company also intends to participate in projects for special test equipment ordered by government-funded research institutes.