South Korea, Malaysia Sign Military Aircraft Airworthiness Deal
South Korea and Malaysia have signed an agreement to mutually recognize the airworthiness certification of their military aircraft.
The deal allows both countries to approve domestically developed aircraft as meeting flight safety standards.
As part of the agreement, South Korea will certify 18 FA‑50 light attack aircraft destined for Malaysia, marking Seoul’s first such arrangement with an Asian country, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
“With the mutual recognition of airworthiness certification with Malaysia as an opportunity, we anticipate that exports of domestically produced aircraft to the Asian region will expand in the future and that the domestic aviation industry will develop through strengthened cooperation in the defense industry,” stated Seok Jong-geon, DAPA Administrator.
South Korea has similar agreements with several countries, including the US, Poland, and Spain, and plans to pursue additional deals with other partners in Europe and Latin America.
FA‑50 Aircraft
The FA‑50 is a light combat and advanced trainer aircraft that has been in service with the Republic of Korea Air Force since 2013. In 2023, South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries announced plans to expand production.
Developed from the T‑50 trainer, it has been upgraded with a Tactical Data Link for real‑time digital communication, the capability to carry precision‑guided munitions, and a self‑protection subsystem, including electronic countermeasures and radar warning systems.
The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of Mach 1.5 (1,850 kilometers/1,150 miles per hour) and has a maximum take‑off weight of 26,929 pounds (12,215 kilograms).
It is equipped with a 20‑millimeter three‑barrel gun and can carry weapons such as the AIM‑9 Sidewinder short‑range air‑to‑air missile and Joint Direct Attack Munition precision‑guided bomb.
The cockpit accommodates two crew members.
