Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir bin Mohamad visited the production site of South Korea’s sole aircraft manufacturer Korea Aerospace Industries during his trip for the ASEAN-ROK Commemorative Summit in Busan, the company said Monday.
He was briefed on the light attack aircraft FA-50, basic trainer KT-1 and Surion helicopter KUH-1.
“We have come to trust KAI more after seeing the production facilities and hope to continue our partnership,” Mohamad said.
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Caption: KAI CEO Ahn Hyun-ho (right) gives a model of FA-50 to Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad at KAI’s aircraft production site on Monday. (KAI) |
KAI pitched the light attack aircraft FA-50 for the Malaysian Air Force which is currently in the process of introducing the next high-trainer and light combat aircraft. The FA-50 is a light attack aircraft that has been recognized by the Korean Air Force for its capability.
If Malaysia purchases FA-50 aircrafts, it will be the fourth nation after Indonesia, the Philippines and Thailand.
KAI also showcased its other aircrafts, including FA-50, KT-1, and KUH-1, at Gimhae Airport for leaders from ASEAN countries who participated in the four-day summit that began on Monday.
The aerospace and defense company earlier introduced its aircrafts, such as FA-50, to Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
By Shin Ji-hye (
shinjh@heraldcorp.com)
