Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) signed a contract with the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) on May 17 to develop a "micro-satellite system SAR verification satellite (K model)" worth X67 billion won.
The agreement spans a period of approximately four years, set to conclude in June 2027. Within this timeframe, KAI will undertake satellite development, as well as the launch and mission testing of the satellite in outer space.
This project signifies KAI's strategic plan to broaden its existing range of mid- and large-sized satellites to include ultra-small satellites. It aims to foster the industrialization of satellite exports, which is at the core of the emerging Newspace sector. This expansion aligns with KAI's aim to leverage its satellite mass production infrastructure.
Over the past three decades, KAI has consistently played a leading role in the domestic space industry. Their involvement has spanned diverse medium and large satellite development projects, including multi-purpose practical satellites, geostationary satellites, and next-generation medium-sized satellites.
In 2018, KAI established the nation's largest private space center, equipped to handle the complete satellite design, production, and testing process in one location. The facility possesses the necessary infrastructure for mass-producing six to eight medium-large satellites and over 20 micro-satellites.
Moreover, KAI has been actively pursuing package exports that link aircraft and various satellite platforms. Leveraging its expertise in aircraft export marketing and global sales network, the company aims to enter the high value-added satellite service market.
“If this project is successfully completed, we will have a space business heritage for the development and launch of medium and large-sized satellites and micro-satellites,” said Lee Chang-han, head of KAI's Space Systems Research Division. "Through this, we expect to strengthen our competitiveness in the fiercely competitive global space market.”
Meanwhile, in January, KAI unveiled its Global KAI 2050 vision, identifying space business as one of the six core areas for future growth.
