It was the newest version of the multipurpose local T-50 developed in 2006. T-X was designed to maximize the training effect by adding LAD and ET functions required by the U.S. Air Force.
Its new refueling system in air is also expected to satisfy the needs for fostering fighter pilots. The first batch order stands at 350 jets, valued at 17 trillion won, according to local media outlets.
If the order goes well as planned, the industrial implication would amount to 7.3 trillion won and it would bring about 43,000 jobs per year. Considering the additional demand from the U.S. government, the export volume to the U.S. would hit 1,000 units.
The U.S. Force is said to select the models at the end of next year after going through test flights and production assessment. KAI predicted that if the export goes well, other allied nations of the U.S. may buy the jets and that would lead to exports worth 100 trillion won.
KAI's head Ha Sung-yong said, "We gained upper hand in T-X business in terms of performance and technology. We will ramp up our efforts to export the products."
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