Seoul: A senior executive at Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), a leading aircraft manufacturer in South Korea, affirmed the depth and strength of the strategic partnership between South Korea and Iraq, which has spanned more than a decade. In an exclusive statement to the National Iraqi News Agency (NINA) on the sidelines of the ADEX 2025 International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition in Seoul, Mr. Joon Ho, Director of Business Development at KAI, highlighted key milestones in this cooperation.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Mr. Joon Ho explained that the partnership began in 2013 with a contract to supply 24 T-50IQ advanced trainer and light combat aircraft, marking the foundation of bilateral defense relations. The cooperation has since expanded beyond aircraft delivery to include maintenance and upgrade contracts, as well as major infrastructure projects such as Al-Suwayra Air Base and the Iraqi Air Force College, which have enhanced the Iraqi Air Force’s technical and training capabilities.
The Korean official revealed that the company is currently negotiating with Iraq for a new contract to deliver KUH-1 Surion multi-role helicopters, which would bolster the Iraqi Army’s capabilities in aerial support and tactical mobility operations. He also disclosed that there are ongoing studies between the two sides regarding a potential future deal for the acquisition of KF-21 fifth-generation fighter jets, along with unmanned aerial vehicles, paving the way for expanded defense and technological cooperation.
Moreover, Mr. Joon Ho noted that KAI’s collaboration with Iraq extends beyond the defense sector, encompassing security and civil services as well. The company has a contract with Iraq’s Ministry of Interior to supply firefighting helicopters, accompanied by a comprehensive training program to equip ministry personnel with the skills needed to operate and maintain them, strengthening Iraq’s capacity to respond to natural disasters and protect lives and property.
These statements underscore KAI’s view of Iraq as a key long-term strategic partner in the region, with cooperation focused not only on equipment supply, but also on technology transfer, capacity building, and infrastructure development, reflecting a mutual trust and a comprehensive partnership oriented toward the future.