ADEX 2021: KAI and Hyundai Heavy Industries sign MOU on CVX co-operation

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to co-operate in the development of a light aircraft carrier for the Republic of Korea Navy (RoKN).

Announced on 19 October during the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition 2021 (ADEX 2021), the co-operation between the two companies is expected to focus on solving technical issues related to manned and unmanned aircraft operations from the new light aircraft carrier, which is expected to be developed as part of the RoKN's ‘CV eXperimental' (CVX) project.

Commenting on the MOU, HHI vice chairman Han Young-seok said the new aircraft carrier will become “the most important strategic asset” fielded by the Republic of Korea, with KAI President Ahn Hyeon-ho adding that the CVX project will eventually allow the RoKN to develop and grow into a ‘blue water' navy.

KAI said in a statement that co-operation between the two companies will also encompass logistical support and training systems, as well as test and evaluation activities to foster the operational capabilities of both the new ship and the aircraft that will operate from it, including the MUH-1 Marineon amphibious helicopter, which is in service with the RoK Marine Corps.

The announcement follows an MOU signed in August between HHI and British company Babcock International on the CVX programme. The UK firm was a lead partner in the Aircraft Carrier Alliance responsible for the design, build, integration, and commissioning of the UK Royal Navy's two 65,000-tonne Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers.