KAI successfully conducts first manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) flight with FA-50 and AAP

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced on the 8th that it had successfully conducted the first formation flight involving a manned aircraft (FA-50) and an unmanned aircraft, the multi-purpose AAP (Adaptable Aerial Platform), over Goheung, South Jeolla Province.

The FA-50 and AAP flew in formation for 20 minutes over the waters south of Goheung at an altitude of approximately 7,000 feet (approx. 2.1 km), maintaining a separation distance of 30 to 100 feet (approx. 9 to 30 metres).

The flight was conducted at a speed of 360 km/h, balancing flight stability and operational feasibility, with both the manned and unmanned aircraft maintaining a steady formation. The AAP used in the flight is capable of speeds up to 790 km/h, and plans are in place to gradually expand its flight speed and operational range.

KAI's multi-purpose AAP is a 150kg-class high-speed unmanned aircraft currently under development through internal investment. Powered by a jet engine and measuring 3.1 metres in length and 2.2 metres in wingspan, it has been undergoing continuous flight testing since its maiden flight in October 2025. KAI is currently advancing its autonomous flight technology through flight demonstrations incorporating the AI pilot system, "KAiLOT."

The AAP aims to perform various missions, such as reconnaissance, jamming, deception, and strikes, by operating in formation with manned fighter jets and other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as part of a next-generation Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) system.

MUM-T systems enhance the operational capabilities of manned assets by enabling missions in high-risk areas where it would be difficult for manned fighter jets to operate directly.

KAI plans to advance the demonstration of AI-pilot-based MUM-T multi-aircraft formation flights using data secured from this recent flight test. In particular, the company intends to further develop MUM-T technology by demonstrating joint flight operations where an FA-50 controls the AAP, while simultaneously securing the technologies necessary for the future development of unmanned combat aerial vehicles (MUCCA).

KAI CEO Kim Jong-chul stated, "This formation flight is significant as it marks the first time in Korea that the operational viability of a MUM-T system has been confirmed through actual flight operations involving both manned and unmanned aircraft." He added, "We will continue to develop related technologies to contribute to the advancement of future air power, leveraging the expertise accumulated through the proactive investments of domestic defense companies."