KAI boosts partnerships with Egypt at defense fair

Officers of the Egyptian Air Force look at next-generation aircraft developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) displayed at the Egypt Defence Expo 2023 (EDEX) in Cairo, Monday (local time). Courtesy of Korea Aerospace Industries

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is seeking to boost partnerships with Egypt at the ongoing Egypt Defence Expo 2023 (EDEX) in Cairo, as the country's sole aircraft manufacturer expands its presence in the Middle East and North Africa.

KAI said it is participating in the biennial EDEX, which is the largest defense exhibition in Africa that kicked off on Monday (local time) for a four-day run.

"During the exhibition, we plan to engage in discussions with high-ranking government officials and senior military officers from Egypt and other Middle Eastern and African countries to explore collaboration opportunities. Our focus will be on creating new business ideas and strengthening partnerships," KAI said in a statement.

The company said it aims to introduce its next-generation aircraft, with the FA-50 light attacker being considered as a promising candidate for the Egyptian Air Force, given its commonality with Egypt's primary fighter jet, the F-16.

Last year, Poland signed a deal to purchase 48 FA-50s, while Malaysia also inked a contract to import 18 of the light combat jets.

KAI views that if the FA-50 is selected by the Egyptian Air Force, it will benefit the Egyptian aerospace industry and also contribute to a mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations in the long term.

"If the FA-50 is chosen, we will build a win-win relationship with the Egyptian aerospace industry and further enhance strategic partnerships with Africa and the Middle East," a KAI official said.

At the fair, KAI is promoting its T-50 advanced jet trainer aircraft to Egyptian officials, as the company views that Egypt is the largest market behind the U.S. for such aircraft.

During the Pyramid Air Show held in August 2022, the Republic of Korea Air Force's Black Eagles aerobatic team demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the T-50 series aircraft, leaving a strong impression on Egyptian Air Force officials.