Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) jointly hosted the 14th Korea Technical Cooperation Group (K-TCG) International Conference and the 8th Safety Management Group (SMG) International Conference from May 27 to 29 at the Millipark Hotel in Seongnam.
Initiated in 2009, the Korean Technical Coordination Group (K-TCG) International Conference serves as a platform for sharing technical support strategies and operational best practices to optimize the use of domestically-produced military aircraft.
The conference has historically facilitated the exchange of successful operational experiences among member countries, focusing on improving aircraft availability, establishing reliable logistical support systems, enhancing maintenance capabilities, and reducing lifecycle costs. Since 2016, the event has integrated with the SMG Conference to strengthen flight safety management, evolving into an important venue for both technical collaboration and safety information sharing.
This year's events saw participation from approximately 180 individuals from South Korea, including representatives from the Air Force, Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), and KAI. International delegates from seven countries—Peru, Turkey, the Philippines, Senegal, Thailand, Poland, and Malaysia—also attended, collectively comprising about 30 participants engaged in the operational deployment of Korean-made aircraft.
The opening session featured remarks from Air Force Logistics Command Commander Brig. Gen. Ko Seung-bae, followed by presentations on logistics support strategies and successful operational case studies involving Korean aircraft. Attendees discussed challenges and solutions related to defense logistics and maintenance across nations.
KAI presented on the development of next-generation electronic technical manuals integrating 3D modeling and artificial intelligence (AI). Additionally, the company shared technical insights and response strategies related to the operation of KT-1 aircraft. Both the Air Force Logistics Command and the Air Safety Directorate explained operational status and safety education systems for key aircraft such as KT-1 and T-50, emphasizing the importance of information exchange with partner nations.
On the final day, May 29, participants visited the Air Force’s 8th Fighter Wing in Wonju, Gangwon Province, where they observed the Black Eagles aerobatic team’s airshow and toured operational facilities of domestically-produced aircraft, including FA-50 fighters.
Organized by the Air Force and supported by KAI, the K-TCG and SMG international conferences serve to strengthen cooperation among countries operating Korean aircraft and contribute to enhancing the reliability and export prospects of domestically developed military aviation assets.
KAI Chief Strategy Officer Kang Kyung-eun commented, “This conference provided a meaningful opportunity to share operational insights and troubleshoot challenges faced by user nations of our domestic aircraft.”
