Aerospace

KAI Rolls Out 1st FA-50GF Combat Aircraft to Poland

The first Korean FA-50 light attack aircraft designated for export to Poland was unveiled in a ceremony on Wednesday that emphasized the two nations’ expanding defense sector ties.

The company had the Roll-out ceremony of FA-50 at its headquarters in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam. The Roll-out ceremony is significant as this is the first chance to disclose the actual aircraft that remained on the drawing to the general public. The ceremony’s theme, “Firm Commitment, Secure Future,” symbolizes both Poland and the Republic of Korea’s dedication to upholding their respective sovereign airspaces and the cordial relationship between the two nations.

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FA-50 used the name FA-50GF (Gap Filler) as it will function to fill Poland’s strategic gaps by swiftly replacing the aging firefighters in Poland and having new ones on track for military missions in a timely manner. After the flight test by the end of July, FA-50GF will be provided starting in August. The first 12 FA-50GFs are scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2023.

According to the contract, KAI is scheduled to consecutively provide 36 FA-50PLs (Poland) out of the maximum contract number of 48 between the 2nd half of 2025 and 2028, which is the upgraded version of FA-50 with the highest level of specifications by reflecting the needs and the requests from the Polish Air Force.

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By improving its active electronically scanned array (AESA), air-to-surface and air-to-air missiles, and expanding its range through aerial refuelling, the FA-50PL is equipped with improved overall functionalities that are projected to aid in the development of the Polish Air Force.

The FA-50PL is a combat aircraft capable of performing a variety of tasks such as special tactics and fighter responsibilities. Because of its excellent interoperability with the F-16, the FA-50PL is ideal for fighter training for 5th-generation planes such as the F-35, which is projected to play a key role in the Polish Air Force.

Aerospace

Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences Expands Columbus Plant by 50,000 Sqft

Credit:Aurora Flight Sciences

Aurora Flight Sciences, a subsidiary of Boeing, has launched a significant expansion of its manufacturing facility near the Golden Triangle Regional Airport in Columbus, Mississippi.

This ambitious project will add 50,000 square feet of new space, renovate 40,000 square feet of the existing facility, and introduce advanced automation equipment, robotics, and non-destructive inspection technologies. mcas boeing enhancements will support the growing demand for Aurora’s aerospace systems business.

Since its establishment, Aurora Mississippi has specialized in the production of advanced composite components and assemblies for both military and commercial aircraft. The company first opened in 2005 at Mississippi State University’s Raspet Flight Research Laboratory in Starkville before relocating to its current site in Columbus two years later.

Initially occupying 21,000 square feet, the facility has since grown to encompass over 120,000 square feet, featuring cutting-edge manufacturing technologies such as automated fiber placement. Aurora’s latest expansion is a strategic investment aimed at increasing production capacity for composite components like boeing titanium used in executive jets and the MQ-25TM Stingray composite skins, a key project for its parent company, Boeing.

Additionally, the facility will produce components for NASA’s X-66 sustainable flight demonstrator aircraft, further diversifying its portfolio. Currently employing around 100 full-time staff in Mississippi, Aurora plans to hire more than 60 additional team members by the end of 2025.

Aurora’s expansion project underscores its commitment to Mississippi’s growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sector. The company maintains strong partnerships with Mississippi State University (MSU) and East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), contributing to research, higher education, and workforce development in advanced manufacturing.

Additionally, Aurora actively supports local K-12 STEM education through summer camps and collaborates with high school vocational education programs. The expansion and renovation project will be carried out in phases over the next two years, with completion expected by 2026. This development marks a significant milestone in Aurora’s ongoing growth and its role in advancing aerospace manufacturing in Mississippi.