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 Transfers Rocket Stage to NASA, Paving Way for Human Moon Mission

Image:Boeing

Boeing has achieved a significant milestone by providing NASA with the second core stage of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket.

This crucial component, crafted at NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility (MAF), is set to propel the Artemis II crew into lunar orbit, marking humanity’s return to deep space after a 50-year hiatus.

The monumental Boeing-built rocket stage, the largest element of the Artemis II mission, will embark on a journey aboard the Pegasus barge, traveling 900 miles to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center.

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Upon arrival, it will be meticulously integrated with other essential Artemis II components, including the upper stage, solid rocket boosters, and NASA’s Orion spacecraft within the iconic Vehicle Assembly Building. This intricate integration process is a vital step toward the eagerly anticipated Artemis II launch, slated for 2025.

“Boeing-built products helped land humankind on the moon in 1969, and we’re proud to continue that legacy through the Artemis generation,” remarked Dave Dutcher, vice president and program manager for Boeing’s SLS program. “Together, with NASA and our industry partners and suppliers, we are building the world’s most capable rocket and paving the way to deep space through America’s rocket factory in New Orleans.”

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The delivery of Core Stage 2 marks a significant achievement in the evolution of the SLS rocket. Towering over 200 feet and powered by four RS-25 engines, this core stage, coupled with two solid-fueled booster rockets, will generate a staggering 8.8 million pounds of thrust. This immense power is crucial to launching Artemis II and future missions into the vast expanse of space.

The SLS rocket stands unparalleled in its capability to transport both crew and substantial cargo to the moon and beyond in a single launch. Its extraordinary capacity will facilitate the delivery of human-rated spacecraft, habitats, and scientific missions to destinations including the moon and Mars, ushering in a new era of space exploration.