Korea Aerospace Industries has secured a $64 million contract with Indonesia to extend the operational life of KT-1B basic trainer aircraft used by the Indonesian Air Force for training and aerobatics.
The project will analyze and reinforce the fuselage and wings of the 20 aircraft in Indonesia’s fleet, boosting their design lifespan by approximately 150%. This offers Indonesia a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new aircraft.
KAI specialists will collaborate with Indonesian aviation companies, including state-owned PTDI, positioning Indonesia as a support base for aircraft throughout Southeast Asia.
The deal builds on an existing defense relationship between the two countries, which includes collaboration on the KF-21 fighter jet program. It follows a memorandum of understanding signed last month between KAI and Indonesia’s PT PDS focused on aviation training and personnel development.
KAI President Kang Goo-young said the company has succeeded in commercializing not only aircraft delivery but also follow-up support and performance upgrades, anticipating market expansion through various platforms including the KT-1, T-50 series, and Surion.
The contract highlights KAI’s growing global aerospace presence, having exported 224 aircraft worldwide, with increasing focus on lifecycle management and aftermarket services.
