KUS-RP on show at KADEX 2024.
GYERYONG, South Korea—Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Korean Air Aerospace Division have provided more details on their respective collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) designs aimed to fulfill a Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) requirement for 2030.
KAI unveiled the AAP-150 design at the Korea Army International Defense Industry Exhibition (KADEX) here in Gyeryong, South Korea. The designation stands for Adaptable Aerial Platform and signals the maximum takeoff weight of 150 kg (330 lb.).
AAP-150 has a 24-kg payload capacity, a maximum speed of Mach 0.6 and a range of 400 km (216 nm). It will be launched from a ground-based catapult.
KAI presented a 20% scaled-down flight-test model of AAP-150. A company official told Aviation Week that the company is currently testing the basic aerodynamic characteristics and remote control skills required for the aircraft.
KAI's objective is to fly a prototype AAP-150 in 2025 and demonstrate technology for the FA-50 light fighter to control the AAP-150 in 2027.
Meanwhile, Korean Air Aerospace Division (KAL-ASD) showcased a new expendable CCA known as the KUS-RP—with RP short for "replicator." The company already has the KUS-LW loyal wingman uncrewed combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) in development.
KUS-RP measures 3 m (10 ft.) in length and is 1.2 m wide with a maximum takeoff weight of 200 kg. Powered by a 1,500-newton (337-lb.) thrust turbojet, KUS-RP will be able to reach a top speed of Mach 0.9.
KUS-RP will be launched from an aircraft and be equipped with an aircraft connection interface and folding wings.
KAL-ASD has requested support from the South Korean government to test launch KUS-RP from a company-developed MQ-150K MUAV but has not received approval as of yet.
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