Héroux-Devtek to design KF-X fighter aircraft landing gear

Héroux-Devtek has agreed to take part in designing and developing landing gear for the KF-X fighter aircraft.

The Canadian-based aerospace products manufacturer has signed an agreement with South Korean-based Hanwha Corporation to provide design, development, manufacturing and support expertise for the landing gear systems. Hanwha will provide knowledge, capabilities and experience in manufacturing components and hydraulic equipment in the region.

“Héroux-Devtek is proud to expand its global reach in the landing gear market by collaborating on a new program and joining forces with Hanwha, one of South Korea’s leading aerospace systems manufacturers,” says Gilles Labbé, President and Chief Executive Officer of Héroux-Devtek.

Engineering, testing and qualification will be performed at the Corporation’s engineering facilities located in Runcorn, UK and St-Hubert, Québec. This is expected to being shortly and be carried out over several years.

The two companies were chosen by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), who was contracted by the South Korean government to develop the KF-X, a 4.5th generation fighter. Mass production is expected to begin in 2023 while the first production aircraft is slated to be delivered in 2026 with 120 fighter to be produced by 2032.

We have a strong engineering team and this MOA recognizes our leading, world-class capabilities in the design and development of landing gear systems for various types of aircraft,” adds Labbé. “It also allows us to maintain a well-diversified defence portfolio through a combination of engineering work, new component manufacturing, as well as the provision of aftermarket products and services.”

www.herouxdevtek.com