The Korean-built KT-1 basic trainer makes its debut here at Asian Aerospace 2002. The turboprop, designed and manufactured by Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI), appears in each day's flying display.
With 35 of the type in operation in Korea Ð and a deal inked with Indonesia for seven, with an option on a further 13 Ð KAI believes it can develop an export market in the region.
Speaking on the eve of the show as they put the aircraft through its paces, test pilots Maj Geun-Hwa Jung, and Yeoul Jang Chag stressed the aircraft's flexibility and manoeuvrability.
Routine
Says Chag: "Our routine here in Singapore will show the aircraft's maximum manual performance.
"For a basic-trainer it offers very good flexibility. We believe the aircraft's capabilities mean it will attract a lot of interest from other air forces."
The display includes stall turns, spins and inverted flight to show off the aircraft's ability.
By end 2003 the Korean air force will have taken 85 TK-1s. These will be equipped with rockets and gun pods for weapons training. A proposed forward air control (FAC) variant will fly in 2003.
At the KAI stand (Hall C/230) the company, formerly part of the giant Daewoo conglomerate, is also promoting the advanced trainer it is developing with Lockheed Martin. The T-50 Golden Eagle prototype is due to fly in June 2002; series production should then begin in mid 2003 and roll-out of the first aircraft in 2005.
Source: Flight Daily News
