Hanwha Aerospace to receive full technology transfer for South Korea's homegrown space rocket Nuri
The agreement marks the first time that full launch vehicle system technology has been transferred to the private sector in South Korea
Hanwha Aerospace President and CEO Son Jae-il (right), KASA Administrator Yoon Young-bin (center), and KARI President Lee Sang-chul (left) attend the signing ceremony for the KSLV-II technology transfer agreement
Hanwha Aerospace has signed a landmark technology transfer agreement with the stated-funded Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) for the Korea Space Launch Vehicle-II (KSLV-II), also called Nuri, Korea's first indigenously developed space launcher. This tech transfer underscores Hanwha's commitment to cultivating the space industry as a primary future growth engine, complementing its established leadership in the defense sector.
This landmark deal marks the first time that the complete lifecycle technology for a launch vehicle has been transferred to the private sector in South Korea, formally positioning Hanwha Aerospace at the forefront of the nation's growing space industry. Through this contract, Hanwha Aerospace has secured the exclusive rights to manufacture and launch the KSLV-II directly until 2032, gaining access to the full scope of technology including design, manufacturing and launch operations.
The KSLV-II is a monumental achievement for South Korea. Developed over 14 years from 2010 to 2023, the project was a national effort led by KARI with the participation of over 300 private enterprises. Its successful launch made South Korea the seventh country in the world with the capability to launch a satellite using its own indigenous technology.
Attendees pose for a commemorative photo at the signing ceremony for the KSLV-II technology transfer agreement
Under the agreement, Hanwha Aerospace will collaborate closely with KARI on upcoming KSLV-II’s launches, ensuring a seamless and comprehensive transfer of operational know-how and accumulated experience.
This acquisition is a cornerstone of Hanwha's strategy to build a comprehensive space industry value chain. Leveraging synergies with its affiliates, including Hanwha Systems and Satrec Initiative, the company aims to connect space transportation, satellite manufacturing, and satellite services, creating a robust, private-sector-led space ecosystem.
"This technology transfer is a critical milestone for improving the nation’s space industry capabilities. It provides us with the foundation to enhance the KSLV-II’s technological capabilities and cost-effectiveness," said Son Jae-il, President and CEO of Hanwha Aerospace. "Our goal is to build a robust and globally competitive commercial launch service, solidifying our position as a leader in the new space era."
Hanwha Aerospace
Founded in 1977 in South Korea, Hanwha Aerospace is a trusted global provider of transformative solutions that now extend beyond aerospace to the defense and marine sectors. With an unwavering focus on customer-centric quality management, continued innovation, and product competitiveness reinforced by advanced technologies, Hanwha Aerospace is surging forward as a world-class leader in the burgeoning space and aerospace businesses, as well as in the land, sea, and air defense industries.
For more information, visit: www.hanwhaaerospace.com/eng
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