Image: Matti Blume · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via Wikimedia Commons
South Korea orders two Global 6500 jets for electronic warfare missions
Seoul signs a deal to acquire two Bombardier Global 6500 jets modified for stand-off electronic warfare, complementing existing AEW&C fleet with specialized EW capabilities.
The gist
South Korea purchases two Global 6500 jets to serve as stand-off electronic warfare aircraft, adding new capabilities by 2034.
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South Korea has announced a new military procurement deal involving two Bombardier Global 6500 business jets configured for electronic warfare (EW) roles. The contract, confirmed by Bombardier on 14 July, was formalized in Seoul and includes the conversion of these jets into specialized stand-off jammer platforms. These aircraft will augment South Korea's expanding fleet of advanced airborne military assets and bolster its electronic warfare capabilities.
These two EW-configured Globals are distinct from another ongoing program in South Korea to acquire four Global 6500 jets equipped for airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) missions. The AEW&C jets are being converted by American defense contractor L3Harris. Powered by twin Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 engines, the Global 6500 platform has become a favored base for military special mission conversions worldwide for its performance and range without incurring the expense of a new airframe development.
The procurement followed a competitive bid overseen by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), with the prime contractor LIG Defense & Aerospace securing the award last December. LIG partnered with Korean Air and Bombardier to deliver the EW aircraft package. This win came in competition against a consortium that included Korea Aerospace Industries and Hanwha Systems. The deal's contract value exceeds $1.1 billion, covering the jets and integrated mission systems.
Korean Air is responsible for purchasing the aircraft directly from Bombardier, while LIG Defense & Aerospace leads the mission systems integration and final delivery. The two EW Global 6500s are expected to enter service by 2034, providing South Korea with stand-off jammer capabilities. This involves disrupting enemy electromagnetic signals at safe distances, enhancing defensive and offensive electronic warfare measures without exposing the jets to direct combat threats.
South Korea's investment in Global 6500 technology aligns with global military trends where this platform serves as the basis for a variety of special mission aircraft. Notable examples include the US Army's ATHENA-R/S long-range surveillance aircraft and AEW&C aircraft developed by L3Harris and Saab, both derived from the same Bombardier business jet model. This commonality underscores the Global 6500's versatility and proven military operational record.
Michael Anckner, Bombardier Defense's vice president for worldwide sales, emphasized the jet's adaptability and proven track record. He highlighted the aircraft's global demand for military applications due to its blend of performance, versatility, and the ability to evolve with changing defense requirements. South Korea's adoption of the Global 6500 for both AEW&C and EW missions reflects this trust and strategic value.
LIG Defense & Aerospace also supports South Korea's indigenous military aviation through providing the integrated EW suites for the KF-21 fighter jet. This connection shows a broader commitment to advancing Korea's electronic warfare technology across multiple platforms.
The stand-off jammer role these new Global 6500 EW aircraft will fulfill is vital to modern aerial warfare, allowing the disruption and degradation of adversary communications and radar from a distance. By fielding this capability, South Korea upgrades its electronic warfare toolkit alongside traditional air defense and surveillance assets, reinforcing its deterrence posture in the region.
Frequently asked questions
- What aircraft type has South Korea purchased for the electronic warfare role?
- South Korea purchased two Bombardier Global 6500 business jets that will be converted into electronic warfare aircraft.
- Who are the main contractors involved in South Korea's electronic warfare Global 6500 program?
- Korean Air is purchasing the jets from Bombardier, and LIG Defense & Aerospace is responsible for mission systems integration and delivery.
- When are the new electronic warfare-configured Global 6500 aircraft expected to enter service in South Korea?
- The two electronic warfare Global 6500 jets are expected to enter service by 2034.
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