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L3Harris Chosen as Lead Integrator for South Korea's Next-Gen AEW&C Aircraft

L3Harris beats Boeing and Saab to lead South Korea's advanced air defense project. Local cooperation and operational suitability secured the win.

In the center of the image there is an aircraft prototype and we can see two persons. On the...
In the center of the image there is an aircraft prototype and we can see two persons. On the aircraft, it is written as "Continental Airlines". In the background there is a wall, lights and a few other objects.

L3Harris Chosen as Lead Integrator for South Korea's Next-Gen AEW&C Aircraft

L3Harris Technologies has been chosen as the lead integrator for South Korea's next-generation airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft project. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) selected L3Harris due to its superior operational suitability, operating costs, and cooperation with local defense companies. The project, valued at KRW3.1 trillion ($2.2 billion), aims to enhance the Republic of Korea Armed Forces' air surveillance and control capabilities.

L3Harris will support Korean Air, LIG Nex1, and Ace Antenna in developing and maintaining the Phoenix AEW&C aircraft for the Republic of Korea Air Force. The aircraft will be based on Bombardier's Global 6500 airframe and equipped with Elta's ELW-2085 radar, providing 360° coverage. Korean Air will lead the work on the remaining two aircraft in-country and also handle sustainment. The project is expected to be completed by 2032.

L3Harris' victory came after competing against Boeing's E-7A and Saab's GlobalEye. The company's strong performance in terms of operational suitability and cooperation with local companies secured its selection. The project's budget is KRW3.1 trillion ($2.2 billion), with a contract expected to be signed around November.

L3Harris' appointment as the lead integrator for South Korea's AEW&C project signifies a significant step towards enhancing the country's air surveillance and control capabilities. The project, involving L3Harris, Korean Air, LIG Nex1, and Ace Antenna, is set to strengthen the Republic of Korea Armed Forces' defenses and is expected to be completed by 2032.

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