Korean Air and Doosan Enerbility signed a memorandum of understanding Wednesday to jointly develop aircraft engines and unmanned aircraft systems, marking South Korea’s latest push to reduce dependence on foreign aerospace technology.
Doosan Enerbility, which became the world’s fifth entity to independently develop a power generation gas turbine in 2019, plans to leverage its expertise in gas turbine design and manufacturing for aircraft engine development. The company will focus on engine development while Korean Air provides aircraft systems expertise.
The collaboration targets engines for medium to large unmanned aerial vehicles with thrust levels of 5,000 to 15,000 lbf, as well as smaller UAV engines with thrust ranges between 100 and 1,000 lbf.
Unlike power generation turbines which prioritize efficiency and stability, aircraft engines require high power output, lightweight construction, and operational flexibility. Doosan has already secured critical technologies including cooling and coating systems capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1,680°C – well above the 1,500°C generated when aircraft engines fire.
This agreement builds on Doosan’s previous aerospace initiatives, including a December contract with Korea Aerospace Industries and a January agreement with the Agency for Defense Development for engine testing projects.
The partnership represents a strategic step in South Korea’s broader ambitions to develop indigenous aerospace capabilities and compete with established players in the growing UAV market.
