Hanwha Aerospace is partnering with a U.S. drone specialist company to target the global short take-off and landing (STOL) drone market. The plan is to develop drones that can be utilized even in narrow urban areas.

On the 15th, Hanwha Aerospace announced that on the 14th (local time) at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) defense exhibition in Washington, D.C., it signed a joint development contract with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) for the short take-off and landing (STOL) drone 'Gray Eagle-STOL (GE-STOL)'. While existing drones required runways over 1 km, this model can take off and land with just a 100-meter runway, according to both companies. This capability allows it to operate on short-deck ships, rough terrains, urban areas, and beaches.

The two companies plan to develop one GE-STOL demonstration unit and conduct its maiden flight in 2027. They aim to deliver it to purchasing countries by 2028. During the development process, Hanwha Aerospace will supply the engine, landing gear, and fuel systems, while Hanwha Systems will provide avionics and mission equipment. To support this, Hanwha Aerospace plans to establish production facilities domestically. Previously, Hanwha Aerospace announced it would invest a total of KRW 750 billion in the drone business, including KRW 300 billion secured through capital increases.

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