The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE)’s Vice Minister Youngjin Jang met with Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defense & Space (Airbus DS), on September 13 in Seoul to exchange views on measures to expand cooperation between Korea and Airbus.

Issues discussed include the establishment of the Airbus Korea International Technology Center (AKITC) in Korea, joint development of the technologies for the next-generation aircraft and low earth orbit small satellites. MOTIE also explained the Ministry’s policy plans to expand overseas joint R&D projects in advanced technology areas.

Since the proposal of an R&D center during a meeting in November 2022, both entities have been pursuing its realization. This meeting delved deeper into the current progress of the R&D center's establishment and the details of its operation.

The two sides also discussed joint R&D initiatives for next-generation fighter aircraft, urban air mobility (UAM) technology, creation of low earth orbit small satellites and the participation of Korean companies and engineers in the projects.

Vice Minister Jang stated that “Korea's global strength in semiconductors, software, next-generation communication, battery technology, human talent and overall infrastructure makes it a strategic partner for Airbus. We anticipate the AKITC to be a cornerstone for collaborative advancement with Airbus Group, fostering mutual growth in the realms of industry and security."

He added that the Ministry will prioritize overseas joint R&D projects for advanced technologies and provide support necessary to position Korea as Airbus Group's best global supply chain and technology partner.