Seoul, Nov 11 (IANS) South Korea is seeking a breakthrough in its drive to export its new generation fighter-trainer during the air show in Dubai Nov 11-15 that brings together some 800 defence equipment firms from 80 countries, hosted by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The UAE is on the top of the shortlist of potential buyers of the T-50 Golden Eagle supersonic trainer jet, priced at $25 million each, the WAM news agency reported.
The Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) developed the aircraft in partnership with Lockheed Martin and began mass production in 2005.
The T-50 is the first trainer to use electronic fly-by-wire and digital flight controls for precision manoeuvring. It can be modified into a light combat aircraft.
The UAE is expected to select the winning bidder later this year or early next. The contract will involve dozens of jets. Defence sources put the number at 60.
“Lee Sun-hi, commissioner of the Defence Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), is in Dubai to support the KAI’s last-ditch efforts to clinch the deal,” a DAPA spokesman said.
If the KAI wins the contract, South Korea will become the world’s sixth country to sell supersonic trainer jets.