Aviation News – RTX’s Raytheon delivers first PhantomStrike® radar for Korea Aerospace Industries’ FA-50 fleet
Raytheon, an RTX business, has officially delivered its first PhantomStrike® radar system to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for integration into the FA-50 light combat aircraft — a major step in enhancing the jet’s combat capabilities and export appeal.
The delivery marks a milestone in the partnership between the U.S.-based defense technology company and KAI, announced after the radar’s selection in 2023. The PhantomStrike® is set to provide the FA-50 with advanced detection, tracking, and targeting functions that rival those of much larger and costlier fighter platforms.
Designed as a compact, lightweight AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, PhantomStrike® offers superior situational awareness, electronic protection, and precision targeting in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The radar’s modular design enables easier integration into smaller aircraft like the FA-50, significantly boosting their operational range and effectiveness.
“PhantomStrike® represents a new era of radar technology, offering cutting-edge performance in a compact format,” said Bryan Rosselli, President of Advanced Products and Solutions at Raytheon. “This delivery strengthens our collaboration with KAI and enhances the FA-50’s role as a competitive, next-generation light combat aircraft.”
The integration of the PhantomStrike® radar is expected to expand the FA-50’s export potential and strengthen South Korea’s defense industry footprint in the global aerospace market. Further deliveries are anticipated as KAI continues to roll out upgraded FA-50 variants for international customers.
With this development, Raytheon and KAI reaffirm their strategic commitment to advancing affordable, high-performance defense solutions that meet evolving mission requirements worldwide.
