Seoul: European aerospace giant Airbus SE has announced its commitment to deepening its partnership with South Korea, with plans to expand industrial cooperation and collaborate on sustainable growth within the aerospace and defense sectors.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the announcement came during a press conference in Seoul, ahead of Airbus' participation in the upcoming Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2025. Airbus Korea President Lee Hee-hwan emphasized the company's significant role in South Korea's aerospace ecosystem, noting the long-standing relationship between Airbus and the country.

"Airbus and South Korea have built a trusted partnership over more than 50 years based on innovation and industrial excellence," Lee stated. He further highlighted that South Korea is not merely a customer but a strategic partner in shaping the future of the aerospace industry.

Currently, more than 160 Airbus commercial aircraft, 60 helicopters, and 30 military transport planes are operational in South Korea. At this year's ADEX, Airbus plans to showcase a diverse lineup of systems, including the A350F freighter, the H225M and ACH160 helicopters, and the A330 MRTT+ defense platform.

Lee pointed out that Airbus maintains extensive partnerships with South Korea's government and private partners, such as Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) Ltd. and Korean Air Co., which are key suppliers of major components for Airbus' global projects.

Additionally, Lee discussed Airbus' intention to establish a research and training (R and T) center in South Korea. This follows a memorandum of understanding signed in May 2024 between Airbus' defense subsidiary and Seoul's industry ministry. "The R and T center plan is still in the process of being further developed," Lee noted, expressing the company's intention to communicate the plans officially once they are finalized.

In response to questions about Airbus' competition with Boeing in the Korean market, especially after Korean Air's recent $36.2 billion deal to purchase 103 Boeing aircraft, Lee reaffirmed Airbus' strong relationship with the national carrier. He mentioned existing contracts with Korean Air for the latest A320 and A350 aircraft, emphasizing their fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, which he believes will contribute to Airbus' continued success in the South Korean market.