KAI T-50 Golden Eagle

"KTX-2" redirects here. For the Korea Train Express train known as KTX-II, see KTX-Sancheon.

T-50 Golden Eagle
A Republic of Korea Air Force FA-50 carrying a captive training missile on its wingtip
General information
TypeT-50: Advanced jet trainer
TA-50: Lead-in fighter trainer
FA-50: Light combat aircraft
FA-50 Block 20: Light multirole fighter
National originSouth Korea
ManufacturerKorea Aerospace Industries
Lockheed Martin
StatusIn service
Primary usersRepublic of Korea Air Force
Number built200 (all models)[1]
History
Manufactured2001–present
Introduction date22 February 2005[2]
First flight20 August 2002[3]

The KAI T-50 Golden Eagle (Korean: 골든이글) is a family of South Korean supersonic advanced jet trainers and light combat aircraft, developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) with Lockheed Martin.[3] It is South Korea's first indigenous supersonic aircraft and one of the world's few supersonic trainers.[4]

Development of the T-50 began in the late 1990s, and its maiden flight occurred in 2002. It entered active service with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) in 2005. The T-50 has been further developed into aerobatic and combat variants, namely T-50B, TA-50, and FA-50. An F-50 single-seat multirole fighter variant was considered before being cancelled. The T-50B serves with the South Korean air force's aerobatics team.

The T-50 is in service with a number of countries. Iraq received 24 training variants designated T-50IQ in 2016. The TA-50 light attack variant has also been operated by Indonesia, 16 planes entered service by 2014 and an additional 6 aircraft were ordered in 2021. The Philippines operate the FA-50 light fighter variant, 12 of which were delivered over the next few years with the country considering to order another batch of 12 planes. Thailand ordered 12 units of the T-50 advanced trainer variant (T-50TH) starting in 2015. In 2022, Poland ordered 48 FA-50 aircraft, followed by Malaysia in 2023 that ordered 18 of the latest Block 20 variant.

Development

Origins

T-50 Golden Eagle on a squadron flight

The T-50 program was originally intended to develop an indigenous trainer aircraft capable of supersonic flight, to train and prepare pilots for the KF-16 and F-15K, replacing trainers such as T-38 and A-37 that were then in service with the ROKAF.[5] Prior South Korean aircraft programs include the turboprop KT-1 basic trainer produced by Daewoo Aerospace (now part of KAI), and license-manufactured KF-16.[3] In general, the T-50 series of aircraft, specifically the FA-50, closely resembles the KF-16 in configuration.[6][5]

The mother program, code-named KTX-2, began in 1992,[7] but the Ministry of Finance and Economy suspended KTX-2 in 1995 due to financial constraints.[8] The basic design of the aircraft was set by 1999.[3] The development of the aircraft was funded 70% by the South Korean government, 17% by KAI, and 13% by Lockheed Martin.[3]

The aircraft was formally designated as the T-50 Golden Eagle in February 2000.[3] The T-50A designation was reserved by the U.S. military to prevent it from being inadvertently assigned to another aircraft model.[9][10] Final assembly of the first T-50 took place between 15 January and 14 September 2001.[3] The first flight of the T-50 took place in August 2002, with initial operational assessment from 28 July to 14 August 2003.[3]

KAI and Lockheed Martin were pursuing a joint marketing program for the T-50 internationally. The ROKAF placed a production contract for 25 T-50s in December 2003, with aircraft scheduled to be delivered between 2005 and 2009.[11][unreliable source?] Original T-50 aircraft are equipped with the AN/APG-67(v)4 radar from Lockheed Martin.[12] The T-50 is equipped with a GE F404 engine with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) built under license by Samsung Techwin.[13] Under the terms of the T-50/F404-102 co-production agreement, GE provides engine kits directly to Samsung Techwin, which produces designated parts and performs final engine assembly and testing.[14]

Improved variants

The program has expanded beyond a trainer concept to include the TA-50 light attack aircraft and the FA-50 light combat aircraft.[15] The TA-50 variant is a more heavily armed version of the T-50 trainer, intended for lead-in fighter training and light attack roles. It is equipped with the Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar.[16] The TA-50 is designed to operate as a full-fledged combat platform for precision-guided weapons, air-to-air missiles,[17] and air-to-ground missiles.[18] The TA-50 can mount additional utility pods for reconnaissance, targeting assistance, and electronic warfare. Reconnaissance and electronic warfare variants are also being developed, designated RA-50 and EA-50, respectively.[19]

FA-50 Fighting Eagle on a squadron flight

The FA-50 is an advanced version of the T-50, possessing more internal fuel capacity, enhanced avionics, a longer radome, and a tactical datalink.[20] It is equipped with a modified Israeli EL/M-2032 pulse-Doppler radar with Korean-specific modifications by LIG Nex1.[21] The engine could be either Eurojet EJ200 or General Electric F414 with thrust of 89 to 98 kN (20,000 to 22,000 lbf), roughly 12–25% higher than the F404's thrust;[22][23] and are offered to prospective customers for the T-50. The radar of the FA-50 has a range two-thirds greater than the TA-50's radar.[24] The EL/M-2032 was initially chosen over Lockheed Martin's preferred AN/APG-67(V)4 and SELEX Vixen 500E active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars. Other AESA radars such as Raytheon's AN/APG-79 and Northrop Grumman's AN/APG-83 are options for future production,[25][26] and may be shared with the radar chosen for USAF and ROKAF F-16 fighters.[27] During the 2010s, Samsung Thales independently worked on a domestic multi-mode AESA radar for the FA-50.[28]

In December 2008, South Korea awarded a contract to KAI to convert four T-50s to FA-50 standard by 2012. In 2012, the ROKAF ordered 20 FA-50 fighters to be delivered by the end of 2014.[27] The maiden flight of the FA-50 took place in 2011.[29] 60 FA-50 aircraft are to be produced for the ROKAF from 2013 to 2016.[30] KAI received a ₩1.1 trillion (equivalent to ₩1.16 trillion or US$1.02 billion in 2017)[31] order for the FA-50 in May 2013.[32]

In December 2015, KAI revealed the KAI-LM T-50 T-X upgrade intended to compete in the U.S. T-X program. This variant features a dorsal hump for extra internal fuel and an aerial refuelling receptacle, large area display (LAD), and embedded ground training systems.[33][34][35]

In October ADEX 2017, KAI unveiled the T-50A as a new variant based on the FA-50, including fifth generation cockpit, an aerial refuelling receptacle, cockpit multifunction display, dorsal hump for extra internal fuel, and an embedded training suite.[36] By January 2019, KAI had begun development on the improved FA-50, referred to as the Block 10 and Block 20 upgrades. Block 10 is a software upgrade that can use the Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 sniper targeting pod, while the Block 20 has an improved capability for beyond-visual-range air-to-air missions, carrying munitions such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM.[37]

On 15 May 2023, KAI chose the Raytheon PhantomStrike over the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 to be the FA-50 Block 20's radar. The PhantomStrike weighs 68 kg (150 lb) (lighter than the existing FA-50 radar) and is an air-cooled compact AESA radar with digital beam forming and steering, multi-mode functionality and interleaved ground and air targeting capabilities. Raytheon expects PhantomStrike to be delivered to KAI in 2025.[38][39]

KAI had developed plans for a single-seat version of the FA-50 designated the F-50. This plan was initially put on hold to focus on development of the KF-21, but it was later revisited as part of an effort by the company to increase export sales. The F-50 is claimed to have 80% of the capabilities of an F-16 but at a lower cost; development is planned to be completed by 2028.[40] The South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) began funding the project in May 2025. The F-50 will remove the second pilot and cockpit and install a 300-gallon auxiliary fuel system that will extend its operational radius over the FA-50's 239 nmi (443 km) by 20%-30%.[41]

Design

Overview

A T-50 squadron performing aerobatic maneuvers during a demonstration flight

The T-50 Golden Eagle resembles the F-16 Fighting Falcon, though it is only 80% of the size.[7] The trainer has seating for two pilots in a tandem arrangement. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility. The trainer has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against 4 lb objects impacting at 400 knots.[42] The altitude limit is 14,600 m (48,000 ft), and the airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.[43] The seven internal fuel tanks have a capacity of 2,655 L (701 US gal), five in the fuselage and two in the wings. An additional 1,710 L (452 US gal) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.[11] T-50 trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.[44]

The T-50 uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin,[45] upgraded with a FADEC system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.[46] The engine consists of three-staged fans, a seven-axial-stage arrangement, and an afterburner.[11] The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.5.[47] Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.[11] The more powerful GE F414 and Eurojet EJ200 engines have been suggested as the new engine for the T-50 family.[22]

Avionics

FA-50PH's rear cockpit

Lockheed Martin designed many of the avionics and provides the fly-by-wire system.[7] The T-50's central processing unit and its operating system are developed by MDS Technology.[48] The T-50's NEOS avionics operating system is the first and only real-time operating system to be developed by an Asian company, and holds both DO-178B and IEEE POSIX certification.[48][49][50][51] Samsung Thales and LIG Nex1 are the main avionics and Electronic warfare equipment developers for T-50 and its variants.[52][53] Other South Korean companies and defense institutes such as DoDAAM Systems, Aeromaster, Intellics, and Korea Institute of Defense Analysis are responsible for the aircraft's secondary avionics and embedded systems, including store management computers,[54] avionics testing equipment,[55] flight data recorders,[56] portable maintenance aids,[57] data analysis software,[58] post-flight data processing system,[59] aircraft structure and engine management software,[60][61] and mission planning and support systems.[62] The TA-50 version is equipped with an Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar.[63]

The T-50 is equipped with a Honeywell H-764G embedded global positioning/inertial navigation system and HG9550 radar altimeter.[11] The aircraft is the first trainer to feature triple-redundant digital fly-by-wire controls.[43] The cockpit panels, switches, and joysticks are produced by South Korea's FirsTec and Sungjin Techwin, head-up display by DoDaaM Systems, and multi-function display by Samsung Thales.[62][64][65][66] Other South Korean subcontractors such as Elemech, Dawin Friction, and Withus cooperate in T-50 components production.[67] Hanwha supplies the mechanical parts for the flight control system,[68] and WIA supplies the undercarriage.[69]

Armament and equipment

FA-50 is firing AGM-65G Maverick

The TA-50 has a three-barrel cannon based on the M61 Vulcan mounted internally behind the cockpit, which fires linkless 20 mm ammunition.[11] Wingtip rails can accommodate the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, and a variety of additional weapons can be mounted on underwing hardpoints.[11] Compatible air-to-surface weapons include the AGM-65 Maverick missile, Hydra 70 and LOGIR rocket launchers, CBU-58 and Mk-20 cluster bombs, and Mk-82, −83, and −84 general-purpose bombs.[3]

The FA-50 can be externally fitted with Rafael's Sky Shield or LIG Nex1's ALQ-200K ECM pods, Sniper or LITENING targeting pods, and Condor 2 reconnaissance pods to further improve its electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and targeting capabilities.[70][71] Other armaments include SPICE multifunctional guidance kits,[72] Textron CBU-97/105 Sensor Fuzed Weapon with WCMD tail kits, JDAM, JDAM-ER for more comprehensive air-to-ground operations, and AIM-120 missiles for BVR air-to-air operations.[73] FA-50 has provisions for, but does not yet integrate, Python and Derby missiles, also produced by Rafael, and other anti-ship missiles, stand-off weapons, and sensors to be domestically developed by Korea.[74][75][76] The South Korean military is reviewing whether to arm the FA-50 with a smaller version of the Taurus KEPD 350 missile to give it a stand-off engagement capability of 400 km (250 mi).[77] European missile maker MBDA's Meteor and ASRAAM medium and short-range air-to-air missiles are also reportedly available for integration on the FA-50 and the KF-X.[78]

Operational history

Republic of Korea

T-50B Black Eagles on a aerobatic flight

In 2011, the first squadron with the TA-50, the T-50's light attack variant, became operational with the ROKAF.[79] The ROKAF's Black Eagles aerobatic team operates the T-50B version. In 2014, the FA-50 was officially deployed by the ROKAF with President Park Geun-hye officially leading a ceremony during which a flight demonstration was held showing its capabilities. 20 FA-50s was assigned its own Air Force wing. 60 FA-50s were ordered by ROKAF.[80] On 9 October 2014, an FA-50 successfully test fired an AGM-65 Maverick at a stationary target, a retired ship.[81]

Indonesia

Indonesian Air Force T-50i

Indonesia had been considering the T-50, along with four other aircraft to replace its BAE Systems Hawk Mk 53 trainer and OV-10 Bronco attack aircraft.[82] In August 2010, Indonesia announced that T-50, Yak-130 and L-159 were the remaining candidates for its requirement for 16 advanced jet trainers.[83] In May 2011, Indonesia signed a US$400 million contract for 16 T-50s, designated T-50i.[84] They feature weapons pylons and gun modules, enabling light attack capabilities.[85][86] Deliveries began in September 2013;[87] the last aircraft were delivered in January 2014.[88]

In July 2021, KAI confirmed that it has been awarded a US$240 million contract to supply another batch of six T-50s along with a support and logistics package.[89]

Iraq

Iraq first publicly expressed official interest in the T-50 trainers during the Korea–Iraq summit in Seoul on 24 February 2009.[90] In April 2010, Iraq reopened the jet lead-in fighter-trainer competition for 24 aircraft, in which TA-50 competed.[91] In December 2013, Iraq signed a contract for 24 T-50IQ aircraft, a FA-50 variant, plus additional equipment and pilot training over the next 20 years.[92][93] The first batch of aircraft was delivered in March 2017 while the second batch arrived in May 2018.[94][95] However, none were flown until June 2022, following the negotiation of a maintenance, logistics and training contract with KAI in November 2021.[96]

Philippines

Philippine Air Force FA-50PHs escorting the plane carrying President Aquino

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) chose 12 TA-50s to fulfill its requirement for a light attack and lead-in fighter trainer aircraft. The Department of National Defense (DND) announced the selection of the type in August 2012.[63] Funding for 12 aircraft was approved by Congress in September 2012.[97]

In January 2013, state media reported that the FA-50 variant, not the TA-50 as previously reported, was selected for procurement.[98] In October 2013, President Benigno Aquino III said that the DND was close to finalizing the FA-50 deal.[99] On 19 October 2013, President Aquino and President Park Geun-hye of South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with provisions for acquisitions.[100] On 13 February 2014, President Aquino approved the payment scheme and budget of P18.9 billion ($415.7 million) for 12 lead-in fighter trainers.[101] On 28 March 2014, the DND signed a contract for 12 FA-50 fighters worth P18.9 billion (US$421.12 million).[102][103]

Deliveries began in November 2015,[104] all 12 aircraft were delivered by 31 May 2017.[105][106] Plans were laid for 3 or 4 FA-50s to be fitted with capability for beyond visual range (BVR) intercept.[107] In March 2015, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that the Philippines plans to order additional FA-50s,[108][109] which is supported by the PAF Flight Plan 2028 that lists another 12 FA-50s planned for the future.[110][111]

On 26 January 2017, two PAF FA-50PHs conducted a nighttime attack on terrorist hideouts in Butig, Lanao del Sur in Mindanao, the first combat sorties flown by these aircraft.[112][113] In June 2017, FA-50s were deployed to conduct airstrikes against Maute terrorists entrenched in the city of Marawi starting in May 2017.[114][115] On 12 July 2017, an FA-50 was involved in a friendly fire incident during the battle of Marawi, when a bomb landed approximately 250 meters off target, killing two Philippine soldiers and injuring 11 more.[116] An investigation cleared the aircrew and aircraft of fault and the type was returned to active service in August.[117]

In June 2018, the PAF was reportedly reviewing the possible acquisition of 12 more aircraft.[118][119] PAF Chief Lt. Gen Connor Anthony Canlas Sr. reiterated this possibility in a media interview in June 2022.[120][110]

On 2 February 2019, two PAF FA-50s dropped eight 250-pound bombs on a base of the ISIS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in response to a bomb attack on the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu.[121]

On 25 June 2020, in relation to its 73rd founding anniversary, the PAF conducted a live fire exercise off the coast of Palawan, performing the first live-firing of an AGM-65G2 Maverick missile from a FA-50PH at a floating target to demonstrate its anti-ship capabilities.[122]

On 25 December 2020, one day before the 52nd anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, a PAF FA-50 dropped six bombs, including a GPS-guided bomb, that resulted in the deaths of three New People's Army rebels at their base camp in Daguma Mountain Range in Sultan Kudarat province.[123]

On 26 April 2023, as part of the 2023 BALIKATAN Exercises, a PAF FA-50PH took part in the sinking of target ship ex-BRP Pangasinan as part of SINKEX (Sinking Exercise) under BALIKATAN Exercises, firing a single AGM-65G2 Maverick missile.[124]

Thailand

In September 2015, the Thai government chose the T-50TH for its air force over the Chinese Hongdu L-15 to replace its aging L-39 Albatros trainers. The four T-50THs were scheduled to be delivered by March 2018.[125][126][127] In July 2017, Thailand's government approved the procurement of eight more aircraft[128][129] Deliveries began in January 2018.[130]

Poland

On 22 July 2022, Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said in a media interview that the country is buying 48 FA-50 fighters.[131] On 28 July, KAI officially signed the deal for 12 FA-50 Block 10 and 36 FA-50PL Block 20 with the Polish government;[132] deliveries are to start in 2023.[133] Blaszczak said KAI's ability to deliver the aircraft quickly was the decisive factor in it being chosen. As a result of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Polish Air Force desired urgently to replace their remaining MiG-29 fighter and Su-22 attack aircraft and the U.S. was unable to supply additional F-16s in such a short timeframe. Along with the fighters, KAI is expected to help establish a servicing center for them in Poland in cooperation with Polish defense industries by 2026.[134]

Malaysia

On 24 February 2023, KAI announced the signing of a $920 million deal with the Malaysian Ministry of Defence for the purchase of 18 FA-50 Block 20 for the Royal Malaysian Air Force's light combat aircraft (LCA) and fighter in-lead trainer (FLIT) tender,[135] which is intended to replace the Aermacchi MB-339 and Hawk Mk 108/208 currently in service.[136] The FA-50 was in competition with the Indian HAL Tejas, Italian Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, Turkish TAI Hürjet, Chinese Hongdu L-15, Russian Mikoyan MiG-35, and Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder.[137] On 23 May 2023, Malaysia signed a $920 million final contract with KAI to purchase 18 FA-50 Block 20s.[138] KAI officials said Malaysia is willing to order 18 more FA-50s later.[139]

Possible sales

  • Azerbaijan: Azerbaijani Air Forces has expressed interest in purchasing T-50 trainers.[140]
  • Bolivia: the T-50 has been offered to the Bolivian Air Force as their new light jet fighter.[141]
  • Botswana: The FA-50 was offered to Botswana.[142]
  • Brunei: The Royal Brunei Air Force has expressed interest in the FA-50.[143]
  • Colombia: On 29 April 2022 it was rumored that the Colombian Air Force had chosen 20 TA-50s and FA-50s as its next trainer and fighter,[144] but it was later denied by the Colombian Air Force.[145]
  • Croatia: The FA-50 is also being offered to Croatia, which is deciding on a replacement for its aging fleet of MiG-21BIS aircraft.[146] However, in October 2017, KAI did not bid[147] as the FA-50 could not satisfy the Croatian fighter requirements.[citation needed] The Croatian Air Force then selected the French Rafale.[citation needed] Croatia needs to purchase lead in-trainer aircraft that KAI could bid on. The program is yet to be announced by the Croatian government.[citation needed]
  • Egypt: On 16 January 2023, Egypt's state-owned Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) confirmed an agreement to produce the T-50 advanced trainers and the armed FA-50 locally in Egypt. The Egyptian Air Force is to operate the T-50/FA-50 jet as a replacement to their aging fleet of Alpha Jets and Chinese Karakorum-8 trainer jets.[citation needed]
  • Pakistan: The Pakistan Air Force is considering the purchase of the South Korean KAI T-50 Lead-in Fighter Trainer (LIFT) to revamp its air force training program.[148]
  • Peru: The FA-50 is being offered to Peru.[149] On June 23, 2024 it was reported that KAI and Peruvian Air Force will signed a MoU for 20 FA-50s. Is expected for the MoU to be signed in July and a contract signed by end of year.[150]
  • Senegal: Senegal announced that they will acquire the FA-50 on 29 January 2024.[151]
  • Spain: The Spanish Air Force was interested in a cooperation agreement with South Korea for the use of training aircraft such as the T-50.[152] In 2018, Spain held talks with South Korea to swap 50 basic T-50 trainers for 4 to 5 Airbus A400M airlifters.[153][154]
  • Slovakia: On October 3, 2021 Yonhap News Agency reported that Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) was seeking to export the FA-50 to the Slovak Air Force.[155] A memorandum of understanding (MOU) was reportedly signed between KAI and LOTN, a Slovakian state-owned enterprise to facilitate industrial offset negotiations.
  • United Arab Emirates: The United Arab Emirates Air Force is seeking 35–40 fighter-trainers. In February 2009, the UAE selected the M-346 over the T-50.[156] In January 2010, the UAE reopened the trainer contest.[157] In 2011, it was confirmed that the T-50 was still competing for the UAE purchase.[158]
  • United States: The TF-50A, a variant FA-50, is one of the contenders for the U.S. Air Force's Advanced Tactical Trainer program, with plans to build between 100 and 400 aircraft.[159] The TF-50N, a variant FA-50, is one of the contenders for the U.S. Navy's Tactical Surrogate Aircraft program, planning to manufacture 64 aircraft.[159] The TF-50N is also one of the contenders for the U.S. Navy's Undergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program, planning to manufacture 145 aircraft.[160][161][162]
  • Vietnam: The Government of Vietnam looks to purchase FA-50 light fighters from the U.S. and South Korea.[163]

Failed bids

  • Argentina: The Argentine Air Force evaluated the FA-50 as a potential new platform in 2016.[164] Argentina sought to buy the FA-50 through repatriation in Korea; the Argentine defense minister reported stated that when the financial aid was secured, a contract for the FA-50 with KAI could be signed by December 2017.[165] By July 2019, Argentina was set to buy FA-50s as an interim replacement for the retired Mirage 3, 5, and Dagger force, and to help replace the A-4AR Fightinghawk fleet, as those aircraft are aging and becoming difficult to maintain.[166][167] KAI later notified Argentina that a sale was not possible as the UK blocked it due to an arms embargo — the aircraft features various British components, including Martin-Baker ejection seats.[168]
  • Israel: The Israeli Air Force evaluated the T-50 as a possible replacement for its McDonnell Douglas A-4N Skyhawk II trainers since 2003.[169] On 16 February 2012, Israel announced its decision to procure 30 Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Masters instead.[170][171]
  • Singapore: The Republic of Singapore Air Force evaluated the T-50 against the Alenia Aermacchi M-346 and the BAE Systems Hawk for a $500 million contract for 12–16 trainers.[172] The Singapore Ministry of Defense selected the M-346 in July 2010.[173]
  • Taiwan: The Republic of China Air Force is looking to replace its current fleet of AT-3 jet trainers and F-5 LIFT planes with 66 advanced trainers, both Lockheed Martin with the T-50 and Alenia Aermacchi with the M-346 responded to a request for information (RFI). They were expected to be license produced in Taiwan with a local partner firm, and the overall estimated contract value is 69 billion New Taiwan dollars (US$2.2 billion).[174] However, Taiwan decided to build 66 AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle supersonic trainers based on Taiwan's existing AIDC F-CK-1 Ching-kuo fighters for NT$68.6 billion instead of selecting the T-50 or M-346.[175]
  • United States: The T-50A was a contender for the U.S. Air Force's T-X program, with an opportunity to export 300 to 1,000 aircraft.[22][176] In September 2018 the USAF selected Boeing's T-7 trainer.[177][22] In January 2020, the USAF gave notice that it would lease four to eight T-50A trainers from Hillwood Aviation due to the T-7A being delayed.[178] In August 2020 the acquisition was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic; in October it was announced that the plan had been further delayed.[179]
  • Uzbekistan: In October 2015, the U.S. refused to approve the sale of T-50s to Uzbekistan.[180][181] The T-50 uses a US-made engine, the F404, which requires a US export license to re-export to another country along the T-50.[182]

Variants

TA-50 group display at ROKAF air base
T-50
Advanced trainer version.[183]
T-50B
Aerobatic-specialized T-50 version.[183] Currently used by ROKAF's aerobatic display team, the Black Eagles.
TA-50
Lead-in fighter trainer and light attack version.[183]
FA-50
Light fighter/attack version, originally named A-50. A prototype from a converted T-50 first flew in 2011.[183][184][185]
FA-50 Block 10
Software upgrades to enable integration of Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 Sniper targeting pod[186]
FA-50 Block 20
Integration of telescopic probe solution from Cobham Mission Systems for inflight refueling capability,[187] conformal 300 gallon fuel tank for better range, integration of mid-range air-to-surface missiles and beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles (BVRAAMs), avionics upgrade and possible AESA radar.[188]
F-50
The F-50 is a proposed single–seat multirole fighter variant. In 2016 it was cancelled in favor of the KAI KF-21.[189] In 2024, KAI announced that it had resumed working on the project again.[190]

Country-specific versions

Indonesian Air Force T-50i of the 15th Air Squadron carrying AIM-9P
 Indonesia
T-50i
Version of the T-50 for Indonesian Air Force[84][87]
 Iraq
T-50IQ
Version of the FA-50 for Iraqi Air Force[93][92]
 Philippines
FA-50PH
Version of the FA-50 for the Philippine Air Force[191]
 Poland
FA-50GF
Version of the FA-50 Block 10 for the Polish Air Force[192]
FA-50PL
Version of the FA-50 Block 20 for the Polish Air Force[192]
 Malaysia
FA-50M
Version of the FA-50 Block 20 for the Royal Malaysian Air Force[193]
 Thailand
T-50TH
Version of the T-50 for the Royal Thai Air Force.[194] with some FA-50/TA-50 equipment and capability such as EL/M-2032 radar, MIL-STD-1760 interface, 20 mm gun, radar warning receiver, and countermeasures dispenser system. Compatible with laser-guided bombs, AIM-9 Sidewinder and AGM-65 Maverick, integration for beyond-visual-range missile[195][196]
 United States
T-50A
Failed candidate for the US Air Force T-X program, based on the FA-50.[197]
TF-50A
Candidate for the US Air Force Advanced Tactical Trainer program, based on the FA-50.[159][162]
TF-50N
Candidate for the US Navy Tactical Surrogate Aircraft program and the Undergraduate Jet Training System program, based on the FA-50.[159][161][162]

Operators

Map with T-50 operators in blue

Current operators

 Indonesia
Indonesian Air Force – 16 T-50i trainers were delivered by January 2014. These were fitted with EL/M-2032 radars and cannons in 2018.[198][199] 13 aircraft are in service as of August 2023.[200] In July 2021, Indonesia signed a contract for a further six planes at a cost of US$240 million with delivery by October 2024.[201][202]
 Iraq
Iraqi Air Force – 24 T-50IQ light fighters were delivered by November 2019.[203]
 Malaysia
Royal Malaysian Air Force - 18 units of FA-50M Block 20 on order.[136]
 Philippines
Philippine Air Force – 12 FA-50PH light fighter aircraft were delivered by 31 May 2017.[105]
 Poland
Polish Air Force – 12 FA-50GF Block 10 and 36 FA-50PL Block 20 on order.[192]
 South Korea
Republic of Korea Air Force – 50 T-50s, 10 T-50Bs, 22 TA-50s,[204] and 60 FA-50s[205] (142 total) aircraft in service as of October 2016.
 Thailand
Royal Thai Air Force – 14 T-50TH trainers ordered in total. The first four aircraft were delivered in April 2018.[206]

Accidents and incidents

  • On 15 November 2012, a South Korean air force pilot from the Black Eagles aerobatic display team was killed when his T-50B crashed in the mountains of Hoengsong, about 48 nm (90 km) east of Seoul,[207] due to human error during a maintenance operation.[208]
  • On 20 December 2015, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i crashed while performing a demonstration during an airshow at Adisutjipto Air Base in Yogyakarta, killing its two pilots,[209] possibly caused by pilot error.[210]
  • On 6 February 2018, a South Korean aerobatic team's plane flipped over after the pilot did not align the nose wheel properly, and turned off NWS prematurely at Changi Airport.[211] It was taking off in preparation for a display at the Singapore Airshow.[212]
  • On 10 August 2020, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i pilot died from injuries sustained during a training accident at the Iswahyudi Air Force Base.[213]
  • On 19 July 2022, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i crashed in Central Java during a nighttime training mission, killing its pilot.[214]

Specifications (T-50)

FA-50 Fighting Eagle
FA-50 landing for ROKAF's first delivery
TA-50 Lead in Fighter Trainer at KAI
T-50 Golden Eagles lining up

Data from Korea Aerospace Industries[215][47][216]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 2
  • Length: 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in)
  • Wingspan: 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in) with wingtip missiles
  • Height: 4.82 m (15 ft 8 in)
  • Wing area: 23.69 m2 (255.0 sq ft) [217]
  • Empty weight: 6,470 kg (14,285 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 10,722 kg (23,638 lb)
  • Fuel capacity: 2,655 liters (701 U.S. gal) internal
  • Powerplant: 1 × General Electric F404-GE-102 afterburning turbofan engine (built under license by Samsung Techwin[14]), 53.07 kN (11,930 lbf) thrust dry, 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) with afterburner

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 1,837.5 km/h (1,141.8 mph, 992.2 kn) at 9,144 m (30,000 ft)
  • Maximum speed: Mach 1.5[47][218]
  • Range: 1,851 km (1,150 mi, 999 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 14,630 m (48,000 ft)
  • g limits: +8 −3
  • Rate of climb: 198 m/s (39,000 ft/min)
  • Thrust/weight: 0.96
Note: armament for TA-50 and FA-50 only.

Armament

Avionics

  • Lockheed Martin AN/APG-67 (T-50IQ)
  • Elta EL/M-2032 (TA-50 and FA-50 Block 10)
  • Raytheon PhantomStrike air-cooled AESA radar (FA-50 Block 20 improvement)[38][39]
  • LIG Nex1 ESR-500A air-cooled AESA radar (Option for FA-50 Block 20)[226]

Variant specifications

[217][227][228] FA-50 Block 10 TA-50 T-50B
Length 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in)
Wingspan 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in)
Height 4.82 m (15 ft 8 in)
Wing area 23.69 m2 (255.0 sq ft)
Empty weight 6,454 kg (14,229 lb)
Max takeoff weight 12,215 kg (26,929 lb) 12,223 kg (26,947 lb) 10,722 kg (23,638 lb)
Internal fuel 2.5 t (2.5 long tons; 2.8 short tons)
External fuel 3x 150 US gal (120 imp gal; 570 L)
Range 1,851 km (1,150 mi, 1,000 nmi)
Combat range 444 km (276 mi, 230 nmi)
Ferry range 2,592 km (1,611 mi, 1,400 nmi)
Service ceiling 16,764 m (55,000 ft)
g limits +8.3 / −3

See also

Related development

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

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Wikimedia Commons has media related to Korea Aerospace Industries T-50 Golden Eagle.
External videos
From "Lastochka" to "Fighting Eagle"
video icon "FA-50 aircraft will strengthen the capabilities of the Air Force" on Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej Official YouTube Channel on YouTube
video icon "Solo in FA-50" on Polska Zbrojna Official YouTube Channel on YouTube
video icon "The twelve newest planes" on Polska Zbrojna Official YouTube Channel on YouTube