South Korea’s Aerospace Industries (KAI) is set to develop a single-seat variant of its FA-50 light fighter jet, designed initially with two seats. Critics have pointed out that the FA-50′s range falls short compared to its rivals. However, the new single-seat model is expected to carry additional fuel, thus extending its range. KAI plans to offer both single-seat and two-seat versions to satisfy the diverse requirements of various countries.
A defense industry report dated Mar. 13 revealed that in a meeting on Mar. 8, KAI’s board approved an investment of $27 million (35.6 billion won) towards developing the single-seat FA-50 airframe. KAI President Kang Goo-young had hinted at developing a single-seat variant in March of the previous year. KAI intends to initiate projects such as design drafting within the year.
The FA-50, advancing the T-50 trainer aircraft, incorporates enhanced features such as a tactical data link, precision-guided munitions, and a self-protection subsystem. Traditionally, trainer aircraft accommodate a trainee in the front seat and an instructor in the rear. The instructor oversees the flight and provides training to the pilot. In contrast, in the FA-50, the pilot in the front seat is responsible for flying, while the co-pilot in the rear seat manages control and navigation information, relaying critical situational data to the pilot.
The global demand for single-seat fighter jets has increased due to advancements in automation and control systems, enabling missions to be conducted by a solo pilot. A KAI representative said, “There’s a consistent interest in single-seat variants among our current FA-50 clients.”
To create the single-seat version, KAI plans to remove the rear seat and certain equipment from the FA-50, replacing them with an additional fuel tank. The development process involves challenges such as installing a bulkhead to prevent fuel leakage from the new tank and managing the shifting center of gravity as fuel is consumed. This design strategy maintains the aircraft’s external appearance, which helps reduce development costs.
The single-seat FA-50 is designed to have a larger fuel capacity, enhancing its range. The two-seat version’s standard range is 1,852 kilometers, extendable to 2,593 kilometers with an additional fuel tank. Comparable to the FA-50 in its class are India’s Tejas and Turkiye’s Hurjet. The Tejas reportedly reach 2,800 kilometers when equipped with external fuel tanks. The Hurjet, which is still under development, lacks a detailed range of information.
A KAI official said, “With the ability to carry 810 pounds (370 kilograms) more fuel than the two-seater, the single-seat FA-50′s operational range will increase by 31% for air-to-air missions and 28% for air-to-ground missions.”
