KAI completes six more T-50i trainer deliveries

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has completed the delivery of six additional T-50i advanced jet trainers to the Indonesian Air Force, bringing the country’s total fleet of the aircraft to 22.

The six aircraft were ordered under a contract signed in July 2021, according to KAI on Thursday. Deliveries began this February and concluded on Wednesday.

Indonesia was the first export customer for the T-50 family, signing a contract for 16 T-50i aircraft in 2011. The aircraft are used for advanced pilot training, light attack missions and aerobatic operations.

“The additional six aircraft are expected to strengthen the operational capability of the Indonesian Air Force’s training squadrons and enhance tactical pilot training,” said an Indonesian Air Force official, according to KAI.

The latest delivery also reinforces Indonesia’s role as one of Korea’s closest defense aviation partners. In addition to operating 22 T-50i aircraft, Indonesia has acquired 20 KT-1 basic trainer aircraft from KAI, bringing its total fleet of Korean-made aircraft to 42.

Indonesia is also a partner in the joint development of the KF-21 Boramae fighter under its IF-X program.

KAI said that Indonesia’s adoption of the KF-21 in the future could support the fighter’s export prospects in Southeast Asia and the Middle East, although no procurement decision has been finalized.

The company also said that the T-50 platform has established a foothold in Southeast Asia, with existing operators including Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines placing follow-on orders after initial acquisitions.

The Philippines first purchased 12 aircraft in 2014 and ordered another 12 in 2025, and Thailand acquired four aircraft in 2015, eight in 2017 and two more in 2021.

Separately, KAI plans to begin deliveries of 18 FA-50 light combat aircraft to Malaysia in the second half of this year under a contract signed in 2023.

BY KIM KIM-YOUNG [[email protected]]