General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Hanwha Aerospace said Sept. 16 that a Mojave short takeoff and landing unmanned aircraft completed a battlefield-style landing and takeoff in South Korea.
The demo ran during the Defense Drone Technology Exhibition north of Seoul. Pilots on the ground launched Mojave from a conventional runway at the Republic of Korea Army 513th Aviation Battalion, flew it to Seungjin Training Field in Pocheon-si, and put it down on a rough trail used by tanks and artillery. The aircraft then took off again and returned to the battalion airfield.
GA-ASI said the aircraft carried dual weapon rails and inert payloads. The companies called it the first unmanned system of Mojave’s endurance, range and payload class to finish that kind of short-field cycle in simulated combat conditions. They said no other aircraft in that class can use the same unimproved roads.
“This demonstration showcased Mojave’s ability to perform tactical missions that are representative of real battlefield requirements and challenges,” said GA-ASI CEO Linden Blue. “Whether the user needs contested and austere battlefield operations, ISR, weapons delivery, Air-Launched Effects deployment, troop resupply, counter-UAS, or missions requiring short and unimproved roads for takeoff, our aircraft answer the bell.”
“This demonstration marks an important milestone in delivering tangible results through the partnership between Hanwha and GA-ASI,” said Buhwan Lee, CEO nominee of Hanwha Aerospace. “Going forward, we will work closely with the ROK defense industry to develop unmanned systems designed for future operating environments and expand our presence in global markets.”
The two firms announced a co-development and co-production plan in 2025 aimed at customers that include South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense, the U.S. Department of War and other buyers. The Mojave demonstrator is next scheduled to appear at Hanwha’s Industry Day in Changwon on Sept. 21.
