Korean Air Advances Development of AI-Enhanced High-Speed Target Drone by 2028

Korean Air is accelerating the development of a high-speed unmanned target drone incorporating AI technology to enhance autonomy and swarm control. The project, initiated after securing a contract from DAPA in November 2022, aims to localize core components to replace imported drones. A prototype is expected by the end of 2027, with combat readiness targeted for 2028. The drone will achieve speeds of Mach 0.6 and feature modular design for operational flexibility.

Published Mar 27, 2026

Korean Air is advancing its development of a next-generation high-speed unmanned target drone that integrates artificial intelligence for improved mission autonomy. The company conducted a System Requirement Review on March 25, 2023, with stakeholders including DAPA, the Navy, and the Air Force.

AI-curated by Theia

This project, awarded in November 2022, focuses on localizing critical components, such as the airframe and control systems, to replace imported drones. The drone is designed to achieve speeds of Mach 0.6, with a prototype expected by the end of 2027 and combat readiness by 2028. The open architecture design will allow for modular integration of mission-specific sensors to enhance operational efficiency.