Egypt confirms procurement talks for FA-50 light attack aircraft with South Korea are moving forward
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As reported by The Korea Daily on March 24, 2025, the Egyptian Ambassador to South Korea, Khaled Abdelrahman, stated that negotiations between Egypt and South Korea concerning the export of FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft and anti-tank missiles (possibly TAIpers, according to Hwarang) were proceeding positively. In an interview conducted at the Egyptian Embassy in Seoul, he described the talks as moving in a hopeful direction and referenced broader strategic cooperation between the two countries. The ambassador emphasized that Korea’s defense technology could play a role in Egypt’s strategy to develop domestic industrial capabilities, particularly through the localization of production.Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Current export discussions are said to be in the final stages, with an initial order of 36 FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft under consideration and the possibility of future additional procurement. (Picture source: KAI)
This statement followed a February 2025 visit to Egypt by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Commissioner Seok Jong-gun, who led a delegation of South Korean defense companies as part of efforts to expand exports. This year marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Egypt and South Korea, with the ambassador also identifying energy, infrastructure, and digital transformation as additional sectors for cooperation. Egypt is offering incentives to attract South Korean investment in renewable energy, smart cities, and transportation.
Interest in FA-50 acquisition by Egypt emerged more clearly after the August 3, 2022 Pyramids Air Show, during which the Republic of Korea Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team conducted a flight performance over the pyramids—the first by a foreign flight team at that location. According to South Korean sources, Egypt has been pursuing an advanced trainer aircraft procurement project, with a target selection date in 2023. The total number of aircraft under consideration is estimated at approximately 70. Italy has proposed delivering 20 M-346s, though it is not confirmed if this figure aligns with the Egyptian project. The Italian proposal may be related to a separate Eurofighter package involving 24 aircraft. Egypt currently operates 40 Alpha Jets acquired in the 1970s and 117 K-8Es from China. A procurement of 70 new aircraft would be consistent with replacing all Alpha Jets and part of the K-8E fleet. Some South Korean media reports previously suggested a possible requirement of 100 aircraft, referencing the replacement of Mirage V and Mirage 2000 fighters. However, Egypt ordered 30 Rafales in 2021, which are expected to fulfill that role.
Further developments took place in September 2022 when a YouTube video by Egyptian defense channel Milduck mentioned the possible joint production of KAI’s KA-1 aircraft in Egypt. In November 2022, the defense news outlet Over Defense reported an agreement between Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Egypt to manufacture FA-50 aircraft domestically. The article described the arrangement as intended to expand KAI’s export base in Africa and the Middle East, as well as to improve production capacity. It noted that the agreement was not directly linked to an acquisition by the Egyptian military. However, observers noted that constructing a production line in a country not intending to operate the aircraft would be unusual. This led to a prevailing assessment that Egypt was preparing to adopt the aircraft, with local production preceding an official order. On January 16, 2023, Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) and KAI reportedly formalized an agreement to produce the FA-50 in Egypt. Current export discussions are said to be in final stages, with an initial order of 36 aircraft under consideration and the possibility of future additional procurement.
The FA-50 Fighting Eagle has been presented as a candidate in Egypt’s advanced trainer acquisition program. While the Chinese L-15 and Italy’s M-346 are reportedly less expensive, Egypt operates a fleet of 208 F-16s, the fourth largest globally, and the FA-50 shares over 70% parts commonality with the F-16. This compatibility offers potential advantages in logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. Egypt’s trainer aircraft inventory currently includes models from multiple countries—Brazil, China, and Europe—creating logistical fragmentation. By selecting the FA-50, Egypt could streamline maintenance and reduce operational costs. Although its acquisition price is comparatively higher, total lifecycle costs are considered lower. The Block 20 version of the FA-50 includes performance enhancements that bring its capabilities close to those of the F-16C/D, excluding top speed. If the Egyptian contract is finalized in 2025 and combined with existing orders from Poland (48 units) and Malaysia (18 units), production volumes could increase, leading to potential reductions in unit cost. Should Malaysia proceed with plans to procure an additional 18 units, total production could exceed 66 units between 2023 and 2028.
Egypt operates a fleet of 208 F-16s, the fourth largest globally, and the FA-50 shares over 70% parts commonality with the F-16, which offers potential advantages in logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. (Picture source: KAI)
The FA-50 is currently operated by several countries. In 2013, the Philippines signed a contract worth approximately $450 million for 12 FA-50PH aircraft. In 2018, President Duterte indicated interest in acquiring 12 additional units. Iraq ordered 24 T-50IQs, and Indonesia operates the T-50I. In September 2022, Poland signed a $3 billion deal for 48 FA-50s, with 12 units scheduled for delivery by the end of 2023 and 36 FA-50PLs from the second half of 2025. The FA-50PL is equipped with AESA radar, aerial refueling capability, and expanded weapon systems. Malaysia’s October 2022 contract, finalized in February 2023, involves the FA-50 Block 20. The order covers 18 aircraft for $920 million, with delivery scheduled for 2026. An additional 18 aircraft are under consideration. The Malaysian configuration includes an AESA radar, Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP), aerial refueling probe, 20mm cannon, GBU-series precision-guided bombs, AGM-65 Maverick missiles, and AIM-9 air-to-air missiles.
The FA-50’s operational appeal is linked to its maintenance efficiency, F-16 system compatibility, and multi-role capabilities. While its unit cost is higher than some competitors, its long-term support costs are lower. In fragmented air forces like Egypt’s, this can reduce logistical complexity. The aircraft’s high compatibility with the F-16 platform used by the Egyptian Air Force simplifies integration. With confirmed performance enhancements in the Block 20 configuration—including avionics, radar, and weapons systems—the FA-50 can fulfill roles in both advanced pilot training and combat operations. Integration of Egyptian orders with existing production for Poland and Malaysia may lead to cost reductions through economies of scale.
The FA-50 is a two-seat, supersonic light attack aircraft developed by Korea Aerospace Industries in partnership with Lockheed Martin. It is based on the T-50 Golden Eagle trainer developed under the KTX-2 program. The aircraft first flew on May 4, 2011. A mass production contract was signed in December 2011, and the first aircraft was delivered to the Republic of Korea Air Force on August 20, 2013. Initially, the program included three variants: the unarmed T-50A trainer, the radar-less TA-50 attack aircraft, and the FA-50 fighter-attack aircraft. The South Korean Air Force eventually approved the unified FA-50 platform, which combined attack and fighter roles. The aircraft has since been deployed in multiple squadrons, including in missions such as close air support and conversion training. South Korea produced 60 FA-50s by 2016. Discussions have been held regarding the production of an additional 40 units, although reports about such plans remain unconfirmed.
The FA-50 has undergone iterative improvements. Block 10 included software integration of targeting pods and improvements to guided weapon systems. Block 20 introduces AESA radar—such as Raytheon’s Phantom Strike or South Korea’s ESR-500A developed by LIG Nex1—Link-16 tactical data link, aerial refueling, HMD (helmet-mounted display), radar warning receivers, and integration with AIM-120C AMRAAM missiles. The radar upgrade enables improved detection, target identification, and compatibility with medium-range air-to-air weapons. Additional features include ground collision avoidance systems, terrain-following functions, and off-boresight missile tracking. Future upgrades may include unmanned variants, integration with the KF-21 platform, or new electronic warfare capabilities. Block 20 was previously referred to as Block 70 by the manufacturer in some reports.
The FA-50 is powered by a single General Electric F404-GE-102 engine with a maximum thrust of 8 tons and a top speed of Mach 1.5. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,500 kg, a rate of climb of 12,070 meters per minute, a maximum altitude of 16,764 meters, a range of 2,592 km, and a combat radius of 444 km. The airframe includes seven hardpoints with a payload capacity of up to 9 tons. Armament includes a 20mm M197 three-barreled cannon with 205 rounds, AIM-9 short-range and AIM-120C AMRAAM medium-range missiles, AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles, KEPD 350-2 cruise missiles with 400 km range, and JDAM and Paveway II precision-guided bombs. It also supports general-purpose bombs, cluster munitions, LAU rocket pods, and external fuel tanks. The aircraft is equipped with either the EL/M-2032 radar or the AN/APG-67(v)4, depending on export restrictions. For some export customers, installation of Israeli systems has been restricted due to political considerations. The FA-50 is capable of limited beyond-visual-range combat, precision ground strike, and pilot training functions, with capabilities expanded further in the Block 20 configuration.
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As reported by The Korea Daily on March 24, 2025, the Egyptian Ambassador to South Korea, Khaled Abdelrahman, stated that negotiations between Egypt and South Korea concerning the export of FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft and anti-tank missiles (possibly TAIpers, according to Hwarang) were proceeding positively. In an interview conducted at the Egyptian Embassy in Seoul, he described the talks as moving in a hopeful direction and referenced broader strategic cooperation between the two countries. The ambassador emphasized that Korea’s defense technology could play a role in Egypt’s strategy to develop domestic industrial capabilities, particularly through the localization of production.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
Current export discussions are said to be in the final stages, with an initial order of 36 FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft under consideration and the possibility of future additional procurement. (Picture source: KAI)
This statement followed a February 2025 visit to Egypt by South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) Commissioner Seok Jong-gun, who led a delegation of South Korean defense companies as part of efforts to expand exports. This year marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Egypt and South Korea, with the ambassador also identifying energy, infrastructure, and digital transformation as additional sectors for cooperation. Egypt is offering incentives to attract South Korean investment in renewable energy, smart cities, and transportation.
Interest in FA-50 acquisition by Egypt emerged more clearly after the August 3, 2022 Pyramids Air Show, during which the Republic of Korea Air Force’s Black Eagles aerobatic team conducted a flight performance over the pyramids—the first by a foreign flight team at that location. According to South Korean sources, Egypt has been pursuing an advanced trainer aircraft procurement project, with a target selection date in 2023. The total number of aircraft under consideration is estimated at approximately 70. Italy has proposed delivering 20 M-346s, though it is not confirmed if this figure aligns with the Egyptian project. The Italian proposal may be related to a separate Eurofighter package involving 24 aircraft. Egypt currently operates 40 Alpha Jets acquired in the 1970s and 117 K-8Es from China. A procurement of 70 new aircraft would be consistent with replacing all Alpha Jets and part of the K-8E fleet. Some South Korean media reports previously suggested a possible requirement of 100 aircraft, referencing the replacement of Mirage V and Mirage 2000 fighters. However, Egypt ordered 30 Rafales in 2021, which are expected to fulfill that role.
Further developments took place in September 2022 when a YouTube video by Egyptian defense channel Milduck mentioned the possible joint production of KAI’s KA-1 aircraft in Egypt. In November 2022, the defense news outlet Over Defense reported an agreement between Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Egypt to manufacture FA-50 aircraft domestically. The article described the arrangement as intended to expand KAI’s export base in Africa and the Middle East, as well as to improve production capacity. It noted that the agreement was not directly linked to an acquisition by the Egyptian military. However, observers noted that constructing a production line in a country not intending to operate the aircraft would be unusual. This led to a prevailing assessment that Egypt was preparing to adopt the aircraft, with local production preceding an official order. On January 16, 2023, Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) and KAI reportedly formalized an agreement to produce the FA-50 in Egypt. Current export discussions are said to be in final stages, with an initial order of 36 aircraft under consideration and the possibility of future additional procurement.
The FA-50 Fighting Eagle has been presented as a candidate in Egypt’s advanced trainer acquisition program. While the Chinese L-15 and Italy’s M-346 are reportedly less expensive, Egypt operates a fleet of 208 F-16s, the fourth largest globally, and the FA-50 shares over 70% parts commonality with the F-16. This compatibility offers potential advantages in logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. Egypt’s trainer aircraft inventory currently includes models from multiple countries—Brazil, China, and Europe—creating logistical fragmentation. By selecting the FA-50, Egypt could streamline maintenance and reduce operational costs. Although its acquisition price is comparatively higher, total lifecycle costs are considered lower. The Block 20 version of the FA-50 includes performance enhancements that bring its capabilities close to those of the F-16C/D, excluding top speed. If the Egyptian contract is finalized in 2025 and combined with existing orders from Poland (48 units) and Malaysia (18 units), production volumes could increase, leading to potential reductions in unit cost. Should Malaysia proceed with plans to procure an additional 18 units, total production could exceed 66 units between 2023 and 2028.
Egypt operates a fleet of 208 F-16s, the fourth largest globally, and the FA-50 shares over 70% parts commonality with the F-16, which offers potential advantages in logistics, maintenance, and supply chains. (Picture source: KAI)
The FA-50 is currently operated by several countries. In 2013, the Philippines signed a contract worth approximately $450 million for 12 FA-50PH aircraft. In 2018, President Duterte indicated interest in acquiring 12 additional units. Iraq ordered 24 T-50IQs, and Indonesia operates the T-50I. In September 2022, Poland signed a $3 billion deal for 48 FA-50s, with 12 units scheduled for delivery by the end of 2023 and 36 FA-50PLs from the second half of 2025. The FA-50PL is equipped with AESA radar, aerial refueling capability, and expanded weapon systems. Malaysia’s October 2022 contract, finalized in February 2023, involves the FA-50 Block 20. The order covers 18 aircraft for $920 million, with delivery scheduled for 2026. An additional 18 aircraft are under consideration. The Malaysian configuration includes an AESA radar, Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP), aerial refueling probe, 20mm cannon, GBU-series precision-guided bombs, AGM-65 Maverick missiles, and AIM-9 air-to-air missiles.
The FA-50’s operational appeal is linked to its maintenance efficiency, F-16 system compatibility, and multi-role capabilities. While its unit cost is higher than some competitors, its long-term support costs are lower. In fragmented air forces like Egypt’s, this can reduce logistical complexity. The aircraft’s high compatibility with the F-16 platform used by the Egyptian Air Force simplifies integration. With confirmed performance enhancements in the Block 20 configuration—including avionics, radar, and weapons systems—the FA-50 can fulfill roles in both advanced pilot training and combat operations. Integration of Egyptian orders with existing production for Poland and Malaysia may lead to cost reductions through economies of scale.
The FA-50 is a two-seat, supersonic light attack aircraft developed by Korea Aerospace Industries in partnership with Lockheed Martin. It is based on the T-50 Golden Eagle trainer developed under the KTX-2 program. The aircraft first flew on May 4, 2011. A mass production contract was signed in December 2011, and the first aircraft was delivered to the Republic of Korea Air Force on August 20, 2013. Initially, the program included three variants: the unarmed T-50A trainer, the radar-less TA-50 attack aircraft, and the FA-50 fighter-attack aircraft. The South Korean Air Force eventually approved the unified FA-50 platform, which combined attack and fighter roles. The aircraft has since been deployed in multiple squadrons, including in missions such as close air support and conversion training. South Korea produced 60 FA-50s by 2016. Discussions have been held regarding the production of an additional 40 units, although reports about such plans remain unconfirmed.
The FA-50 has undergone iterative improvements. Block 10 included software integration of targeting pods and improvements to guided weapon systems. Block 20 introduces AESA radar—such as Raytheon’s Phantom Strike or South Korea’s ESR-500A developed by LIG Nex1—Link-16 tactical data link, aerial refueling, HMD (helmet-mounted display), radar warning receivers, and integration with AIM-120C AMRAAM missiles. The radar upgrade enables improved detection, target identification, and compatibility with medium-range air-to-air weapons. Additional features include ground collision avoidance systems, terrain-following functions, and off-boresight missile tracking. Future upgrades may include unmanned variants, integration with the KF-21 platform, or new electronic warfare capabilities. Block 20 was previously referred to as Block 70 by the manufacturer in some reports.
The FA-50 is powered by a single General Electric F404-GE-102 engine with a maximum thrust of 8 tons and a top speed of Mach 1.5. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,500 kg, a rate of climb of 12,070 meters per minute, a maximum altitude of 16,764 meters, a range of 2,592 km, and a combat radius of 444 km. The airframe includes seven hardpoints with a payload capacity of up to 9 tons. Armament includes a 20mm M197 three-barreled cannon with 205 rounds, AIM-9 short-range and AIM-120C AMRAAM medium-range missiles, AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles, KEPD 350-2 cruise missiles with 400 km range, and JDAM and Paveway II precision-guided bombs. It also supports general-purpose bombs, cluster munitions, LAU rocket pods, and external fuel tanks. The aircraft is equipped with either the EL/M-2032 radar or the AN/APG-67(v)4, depending on export restrictions. For some export customers, installation of Israeli systems has been restricted due to political considerations. The FA-50 is capable of limited beyond-visual-range combat, precision ground strike, and pilot training functions, with capabilities expanded further in the Block 20 configuration.
