South Korea is set to embark on a significant defense project, with two consortiums preparing bids for the Defense Acquisition Program Administration’s (DAPA) $1.3 billion electronic warfare aircraft initiative. Aiming to convert a commercial aircraft into a military platform capable of detecting and jamming enemy signals, the project seeks to deliver four operational units by 2034. Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Systems lead one consortium, while LIG Nex1 and Korean Air head another. This initiative highlights South Korea’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign technology, reflecting a broader trend of self-reliance in defense among nations in the region.