GA-ASI, Hanwha Sign UAS Collaboration Deal

Our Bureau - : Apr 14, 2025 - : 6:57 pm

To read the full article, please log in or enter your email below:

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace have signed an agreement to jointly develop and produce Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for the international defence market. The partnership builds on the successful launch and recovery of a GA-ASI MQ-1C Gray Eagle STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) from the Republic of Korea Navy’s amphibious assault ship ROKS Dokdo in 2024.

The at-sea demonstration, conducted off the coast of Pohang, South Korea, showcased the Gray Eagle STOL’s ability to operate from a range of aircraft-capable naval vessels, including those without catapults or arresting gear. This capability is expected to enhance multi-domain operational flexibility for both the United States and its allies.

The agreement between GA-ASI and Hanwha involves joint investment in UAS-related business development, infrastructure, and production capabilities. Hanwha plans to invest over 300 billion KRW (approximately USD 203.5 million) in production facilities for the Gray Eagle STOL and related engine systems, as well as to support expanded research and development in both South Korea and the United States. The initiative is also expected to contribute to job creation, with GA-ASI estimating up to 10,000 positions globally over the next decade, including at least 500 in the U.S.

“We're excited to extend and deepen our business relationship with Hanwha,” said Linden Blue, CEO of GA-ASI, who oversaw the November 2024 demonstration. “Our test flight with Gray Eagle STOL was well-received by the Republic of Korea Navy, and we know Hanwha is ready to invest to grow a UAS business with GA-ASI both in Korea and the U.S.”

The Gray Eagle STOL, formerly known as Mojave, is a medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAS designed to operate independently of traditional runways. It shares key components with the Gray Eagle 25M, reducing cost and technical risk. The aircraft has demonstrated its versatility in various trials, including operations from ROKS Dokdo, the Royal Navy's HMS Prince of Wales, and live-fire testing at Yuma Proving Ground in the United States.

Hanwha Vice Chairman Dong Kwan Kim described unmanned systems as a “strategic pillar” for the future of defence, noting the collaboration aims to reinforce South Korea’s defence autonomy, expand its role in the global UAS market, and support the broader ROK-U.S. alliance. Hanwha also intends to cultivate the domestic UAS supply chain by working with local component and material suppliers.

Ga-asi / Gray-eagle / Hanwha-aerospace /

MORE NEWS