▲ 500kg class next-generation medium-sized satellite #2 developed by KAI. (Photo courtesy = KAI)
Korea Aerospace Industries Co., Ltd. (KAI) announced on the 3rd that it launched the’New Space TF’ at its headquarters in Sacheon to proactively respond to changes in the space industry trend.
The New Space TF was formed with the head of the future business unit as the head of the TF, converging the company-wide strategic group and financial group.
KAI announced its goal to complete a company-centered value chain to secure future growth engines in the space market, which is estimated at 500 trillion won. Based on KAI’s core competencies and competitiveness, it is planning to lay the foundation for a leap forward through business diversification, such as conversion to a market-leading system and strategic alliances.
To this end, we plan to explore concrete cooperation plans with specialized organizations, companies and start-ups in the space field and establish an action plan.
KAI entered into a business agreement with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) on the 18th of last month to develop a convergence solution between satellites and expand the space business area by combining small and micro-satellite technologies in medium and large satellites.
In addition, KAI has completed the construction of the largest private space center in Korea in August last year, capable of simultaneously manufacturing more than 20 micro-satellites, and designing, manufacturing, assembling and testing satellites.
A KAI official said, “We have secured investment and technology for the development of the domestic space industry for 25 years,” and “We will lead the new space era by completing the KAI-centered value chain.”
Since 1994, KAI has been actively involved in the development of various satellites such as multipurpose utility satellites, next-generation medium-sized satellites, and geostationary orbit complex satellites.
In addition, it has secured capabilities as a’total solution provider’ in the space field by localizing core components of the lunar orbiter in preparation for the era of space exploration, manufacturing and total assembly of large propellant tanks for the Korean launch vehicle Nuri.