Hanwha Aerospace is emerging as the de facto prime contractor for the long-range air-to-air missile (LRAAM) for the KF-21, with the development schedule accelerated by three years due to strong export demand. This solidifies its leadership in the domestic missile supply chain and positions it to capture significant new revenue.
Hanwha Ocean is highly likely to win the upcoming frigate order from Thailand's navy because it previously delivered the first ship in 2016, giving it incumbency advantages in after-sales support, crew familiarity, and operational compatibility. Thailand urgently wants to complete the originally planned two-ship program, and the Chinese alternative has proven unreliable with weak firepower and problematic engine supply issues, making Hanwha Ocean the clear favorite.
KAI's KF-21 mass production is ramping up with initial deployment starting September 2026, while export momentum is strong, especially from the Philippines with explicit U.S. backing, and growing interest from other ASEAN and Middle Eastern countries. The fighter’s ability to counter China enhances its appeal to regional buyers, giving KAI a multi-year order pipeline.