TheKAI T-50 Golden Eagle (Korean: 골든이글) is the first South Korean supersonic advancedjet trainer,light combat aircraft andlight fighter developed byKorea Aerospace Industries (KAI) withLockheed Martin.^[3] It is South Korea's first indigenoussupersonic aircraft and one of the world's few supersonic trainers.^[4]

T-50 / FA-50
APhilippine Air Force FA-50PH
General information
Type	T-50:Advanced jet trainer TA-50:Lead-in fighter trainer FA-50:Light combat aircraft FA-50 Block 20:Lightmultirole fighter
National origin	South Korea
Manufacturer	Korea Aerospace Industries Lockheed Martin
Status	In service
Primary users	Republic of Korea Air Force Iraqi Air Force Royal Thai Air Force Indonesian Air Force
Number built	200 (all models)[1]
History
Manufactured	2001–present
Introduction date	February 22, 2005[2]
First flight	August 20, 2002[3]

Development of the T-50 began in the late 1990s, and itsmaiden flight occurred in 2002. It entered active service with theRepublic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) in 2005. The T-50 has been further developed into aerobatic and combat variants, namely T-50B, TA-50, and FA-50. An F-50 single-seat multirole fighter variant was considered before being cancelled. The T-50B serves with the South Korean Air Force's aerobatics team.

The T-50 is in service with several countries. Iraq received 24 training variants designated T-50IQ in 2016. The TA-50 light attack variant has also been operated byIndonesia, 16 planes entered service in 2014 and an additional 6 aircraft were ordered in 2021. ThePhilippines operate the FA-50 light fighter variant, 12 of which were delivered over the next few years with the country considering ordering another batch of 12 planes.Thailand ordered 12 units of the T-50 advanced trainer variant (T-50TH) starting in 2015. In 2022,Poland ordered 48 FA-50 aircraft, followed byMalaysia in 2023 which ordered 18 of the latest Block 20 variant.

The T-50 program was originally intended to develop an indigenoustrainer aircraft capable of supersonic flight, to train and prepare pilots for theKF-16 andF-15K, replacing trainers such asT-38 andA-37 that were then in service with the ROKAF.^[5] Prior South Korean aircraft programs include the turbopropKT-1 basic trainer produced by Daewoo Aerospace (now part of KAI), and license-manufactured KF-16.^[3] In general, the T-50 series of aircraft, specifically the FA-50, closely resembles the KF-16 in configuration.^[6][5]

The mother program, code-named KTX-2, began in 1992,^[7] but the Ministry of Finance and Economy suspended KTX-2 in 1995 due to financial constraints.^[8] The basic design of the aircraft was set by 1999.^[3] The development of the aircraft was funded 70% by the South Korean government, 17% by KAI, and 13% by Lockheed Martin.^[3]

The aircraft was formally designated as the T-50 Golden Eagle in February 2000.^[3] The T-50A designation was reserved by theU.S. military to prevent it from being inadvertently assigned to another aircraft model.^[9][10] Final assembly of the first T-50 took place between January 15 and September 14, 2001.^[3] The first flight of the T-50 took place in August 2002, with initial operational assessment from July 28 to August 14, 2003.^[3]

KAI and Lockheed Martin were pursuing a joint marketing program for the T-50 internationally. The ROKAF placed a production contract for 25 T-50s in December 2003, with aircraft scheduled to be delivered between 2005 and 2009.^{[11][unreliable source?]} Original T-50 aircraft are equipped with theAN/APG-67(v)4 radar from Lockheed Martin.^[12] The T-50 is equipped with aGE F404 engine withFull Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) built under license bySamsung Techwin.^[13] Under the terms of the T-50/F404-102 co-production agreement, GE provides engine kits directly to Samsung Techwin, which produces designated parts and performs final engine assembly and testing.^[14]

The program has expanded beyond a trainer concept to include the TA-50 lightattack aircraft and the FA-50light combat aircraft.^[15] The TA-50 variant is a more heavily armed version of the T-50 trainer, intended for lead-in fighter training and light attack roles. It is equipped with theEltaEL/M-2032 fire control radar.^[16] The TA-50 is designed to operate as a full-fledged combat platform forprecision-guided weapons,air-to-air missiles,^[17] andair-to-ground missiles.^[18] The TA-50 can mount additional utility pods for reconnaissance, targeting assistance, and electronic warfare. Reconnaissance and electronic warfare variants are also being developed, designated RA-50 and EA-50, respectively.^[19]

The FA-50 is an advanced version of the T-50, possessing more internal fuel capacity, enhanced avionics, a longer radome, and a tactical datalink.^[20] It is equipped with a modifiedIsraeli EL/M-2032pulse-Doppler radar with Korean-specific modifications byLIG Nex1.^[21] The engine could be eitherEurojet EJ200 orGeneral Electric F414 with thrust of 89 to 98 kN (20,000 to 22,000 lbf), roughly 12–25% higher than the F404's thrust;^[22][23] and are offered to prospective customers for the T-50. The radar of the FA-50 has a range two-thirds greater than the TA-50's radar.^[24] The EL/M-2032 was initially chosen overLockheed Martin's preferredAN/APG-67(V)4 andSELEX Vixen 500Eactive electronically scanned array (AESA) radars. Other AESA radars such asRaytheon'sAN/APG-79 andNorthrop Grumman'sAN/APG-83 are options for future production,^[25][26] and may be shared with the radar chosen for USAF and ROKAF F-16 fighters.^[27] During the 2010s,Samsung Thales independently worked on a domestic multi-mode AESA radar for the FA-50.^[28]

In December 2008, South Korea awarded a contract to KAI to convert four T-50s to FA-50 standard by 2012. In 2012, the ROKAF ordered 20 FA-50 fighters to be delivered by the end of 2014.^[27] The maiden flight of the FA-50 took place in 2011.^[29] 60 FA-50 aircraft are to be produced for the ROKAF from 2013 to 2016.^[30] KAI received a₩1.1 trillion (equivalent to ₩1.16 trillion orUS$1.02 billion in 2017)^[31] order for the FA-50 in May 2013.^[32]

In December 2015, KAI revealed the KAI-LM T-50 T-X upgrade intended to compete in the U.S. T-X program. This variant features a dorsal hump for extra internal fuel and an aerial refuelling receptacle, large area display (LAD), and embedded ground training systems.^[33][34][35]

In October ADEX 2017, KAI unveiled the T-50A as a new variant based on the FA-50, including fifth generation cockpit, an aerial refuelling receptacle, cockpit multifunction display, dorsal hump for extra internal fuel, and an embedded training suite.^[36] By January 2019, KAI had begun development on the improved FA-50, referred to as the Block 10 and Block 20 upgrades. Block 10 is a software upgrade that can use the Lockheed MartinAN/AAQ-33 sniper targeting pod, while the Block 20 has an improved capability for beyond-visual-range air-to-air missions, carrying munitions such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM.^[37]

On May 15, 2023, KAI chose the Raytheon PhantomStrike over the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 to be the FA-50 Block 20's radar. The PhantomStrike weighs 68 kg (150 lb) (lighter than the existing FA-50 radar) and is an air-cooled compact AESA radar with digitalbeam forming and steering, multi-mode functionality and interleaved ground and air targeting capabilities. Raytheon expects PhantomStrike to be delivered to KAI in 2025.^[38][39]

KAI had developed plans for a single-seat version of the FA-50 designated theF-50. This plan was initially put on hold to focus on development of theKF-21, but it was later revisited as part of an effort by the company to increase export sales. The F-50 is claimed to have 80% of the capabilities of an F-16 but at a lower cost; development is planned to be completed by 2028.^[40] The South KoreanMinistry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) began funding the project in 2024. The F-50 will remove the second pilot and cockpit and install a 300-gallon auxiliary fuel system that will extend its operational radius over the FA-50's 239 nmi (443 km) by 20%–30%.^[41]

The T-50 Golden Eagle resembles the F-16 Fighting Falcon, though it is only 80% of the size.^[7] The trainer has seating for two pilots in a tandem arrangement. The high-mountedcanopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied withstretched acrylic, providing the pilots with good visibility. The trainer has been tested to offer the canopy with ballistic protection against 4 lb objects impacting at 400 knots.^[42] The altitude limit is 14,600 m (48,000 ft), and the airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.^[43] The seven internal fuel tanks have a capacity of 2,655 L (701 US gal), five in the fuselage and two in the wings. An additional 1,710 L (452 US gal) of fuel can be carried in the three external fuel tanks.^[11] T-50 trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.^[44]

The T-50 uses a single General Electric F404-102turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin,^[45] upgraded with a FADEC system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.^[46] The engine consists of three-staged fans, a seven-axial-stage arrangement, and anafterburner.^[11] The aircraft has a maximum speed ofMach 1.5.^[47] Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7kN (17,700lbf) of thrust with afterburner.^[11] The more powerful GE F414 and Eurojet EJ200 engines have been suggested as the new engine for the T-50 family.^[22]

Lockheed Martin designed many of the avionics and provides the fly-by-wire system.^[7] The T-50'scentral processing unit and itsoperating system are developed by MDS Technology.^[48] The T-50's NEOS avionics operating system is the first and onlyreal-time operating system to be developed by an Asian company, and holds bothDO-178B andIEEEPOSIX certification.^{[48][49][50][51]} Samsung Thales andLIG Nex1 are the mainavionics andElectronic warfare equipment developers for T-50 and its variants.^[52][53] Other South Korean companies and defense institutes such as DoDAAM Systems, Aeromaster, Intellics, and Korea Institute of Defense Analysis are responsible for the aircraft's secondary avionics and embedded systems, including store management computers,^[54] avionics testing equipment,^[55] flight data recorders,^[56] portable maintenance aids,^[57] data analysis software,^[58] post-flight data processing system,^[59] aircraft structure and engine management software,^[60][61] and mission planning and support systems.^[62] The TA-50 version is equipped with an Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar.^[63]

The T-50 is equipped with aHoneywell H-764G embedded global positioning/inertial navigation system and HG9550radar altimeter.^[11] The aircraft is the first trainer to feature triple-redundant digitalfly-by-wire controls.^[43] The cockpit panels, switches, and joysticks are produced by South Korea's FirsTec and Sungjin Techwin,head-up display by DoDaaM Systems, andmulti-function display by Samsung Thales.^{[62][64][65][66]} Other South Korean subcontractors such as Elemech, Dawin Friction, and Withus cooperate in T-50 components production.^[67]Hanwha supplies the mechanical parts for theflight control system,^[68] andWIA supplies theundercarriage.^[69]

The TA-50 has a three-barrelM197 cannon, based on theM61 Vulcan, mounted internally behind the cockpit, which fires linkless 20 mm ammunition.^[11][70] Wingtip rails can accommodate theAIM-9 Sidewinder missile, and a variety of additional weapons can be mounted on underwinghardpoints.^[11] Compatible air-to-surface weapons include theAGM-65 Maverick missile,Hydra 70 andLOGIR rocket launchers, CBU-58 andMk-20cluster bombs, and Mk-82, −83, and −84 general-purpose bombs.^[3]

The FA-50 can be externally fitted withRafael'sSky Shield or LIG Nex1's ALQ-200K ECM pods,Sniper orLITENING targeting pods, and Condor 2 reconnaissance pods to further improve its electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and targeting capabilities.^[71][72] Other armaments includeSPICE multifunctional guidance kits,^[73] TextronCBU-97/105 Sensor Fuzed Weapon withWCMD tail kits,JDAM,JDAM-ER for more comprehensive air-to-ground operations, andAIM-120 missiles forBVR air-to-air operations.^[74] FA-50 has provisions for, but does not yet integrate,Python andDerby missiles, also produced by Rafael, and other anti-ship missiles, stand-off weapons, and sensors to be domestically developed by Korea.^[75][76][77] The South Korean military is reviewing whether to arm the FA-50 with a smaller version of theTaurus KEPD 350 missile to give it a stand-off engagement capability of 400 km (250 mi).^[78] European missile makerMBDA'sMeteor andASRAAM medium and short-range air-to-air missiles are also reportedly available for integration on the FA-50 and theKF-X.^[79]

In 2011, the first squadron with the TA-50, the T-50's light attack variant, became operational with the ROKAF.^[80] The ROKAF'sBlack Eagles aerobatic team operates the T-50B version. In 2014, the FA-50 was officially deployed by the ROKAF with President Park Geun-hye officially leading a ceremony during which a flight demonstration was held showing its capabilities. 20 FA-50s was assigned its own Air Force wing. 60 FA-50s were ordered by ROKAF.^[81] On October 9, 2014, an FA-50 successfully test fired an AGM-65 Maverick at a stationary target, a retired ship.^[82]

Indonesia had been considering the T-50, along with four other aircraft to replace itsBAE Systems Hawk Mk 53 trainer andOV-10 Bronco attack aircraft.^[83] In August 2010, Indonesia announced that T-50,Yak-130 andL-159 were the remaining candidates for its requirement for 16 advanced jet trainers.^[84] In May 2011, Indonesia signed a US$400 million contract for 16 T-50s, designated T-50i.^[85] They feature weapons pylons and gun modules, enabling light attack capabilities.^[86][87] Deliveries began in September 2013;^[88] the last aircraft were delivered in January 2014.^[89]

In July 2021, KAI confirmed that it has been awarded a US$240 million contract to supply another batch of six T-50s along with a support and logistics package.^[90]

Iraq first publicly expressed official interest in the T-50 trainers during the Korea–Iraq summit in Seoul on February 24, 2009.^[91] In April 2010, Iraq reopened the jet lead-in fighter-trainer competition for 24 aircraft, in which TA-50 competed.^[92] In December 2013, Iraq signed a contract for 24 T-50IQ aircraft, a FA-50 variant, plus additional equipment and pilot training over the next 20 years.^[93][94] The first batch of aircraft was delivered in March 2017 while the second batch arrived in May 2018.^[95][96] However, none were flown until June 2022, following the negotiation of a maintenance, logistics and training contract with KAI in November 2021.^[97]

ThePhilippine Air Force (PAF) chose 12 TA-50s to fulfill its requirement for a light attack and lead-in fighter trainer aircraft. TheDepartment of National Defense (DND) announced the selection of the type in August 2012.^[63] Funding for 12 aircraft was approved by Congress in September 2012.^[98]

In January 2013, state media reported that the FA-50 variant, not the TA-50 as previously reported, was selected for procurement.^[99] In October 2013, PresidentBenigno Aquino III said that the DND was close to finalizing the FA-50 deal.^[100] On October 19, 2013, President Aquino and PresidentPark Geun-hye of South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with provisions for acquisitions.^[101] On February 13, 2014, President Aquino approved the payment scheme and budget of P18.9 billion ($415.7 million) for 12 lead-in fighter trainers.^[102] On March 28, 2014, the DND signed a contract for 12 FA-50 fighters worth P18.9 billion (US$421.12 million).^[103][104]

Deliveries began in November 2015,^[105] all 12 aircraft were delivered by May 31, 2017.^[106][107] Plans were laid for 3 or 4 FA-50s to be fitted with capability for beyond visual range (BVR) intercept.^[108] In March 2015,Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that the Philippines plans to order additional FA-50s,^[109][110] which is supported by the PAF Flight Plan 2028 that lists another 12 FA-50s planned for the future.^[111][112]

On January 26, 2017, two PAF FA-50PHs conducted a nighttime attack on terrorist hideouts inButig, Lanao del Sur in Mindanao, the first combat sorties flown by these aircraft.^[113][114] In June 2017, FA-50s were deployed to conduct airstrikes againstMaute terroristsentrenched in the city of Marawi starting in May 2017.^[115][116] On July 12, 2017, an FA-50 was involved in a friendly fire incident during thebattle of Marawi, when a bomb landed approximately 250 meters off target, killing two Philippine soldiers and injuring 11 more.^[117] An investigation cleared the aircrew and aircraft of fault and the type was returned to active service in August.^[118]

In June 2018, the PAF was reportedly reviewing the possible acquisition of 12 more aircraft.^[119] PAF Chief Lt. Gen Connor Anthony Canlas Sr. reiterated this possibility in a media interview in June 2022.^[120][111]

On February 2, 2019, two PAF FA-50s dropped eight 250-pound bombs on a base of the ISIS-linkedBangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in response to a bomb attack on theOur Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu.^[121]

On June 25, 2020, in relation to its 73rd founding anniversary, the PAF conducted a live fire exercise off the coast of Palawan, performing the first live-firing of an AGM-65G2 Maverick missile from a FA-50PH at a floating target to demonstrate its anti-ship capabilities.^[122]

On December 25, 2020, one day before the 52nd anniversary of theCommunist Party of the Philippines, a PAF FA-50 dropped six bombs, including a GPS-guided bomb, that resulted in the deaths of threeNew People's Army rebels at their base camp in Daguma Mountain Range inSultan Kudarat province.^[123]

On April 26, 2023, as part of the 2023BALIKATAN Exercises, a PAF FA-50PH took part in the sinking of target ship ex-BRP Pangasinan as part of SINKEX (Sinking Exercise) under BALIKATAN Exercises, firing a single AGM-65G2 Maverick missile.^[124]

On 4 March 2025, a PAF FA-50 and its two pilots had lost contact and went missing during a night tactical mission againstcommunist insurgency in Southern Philippines.^[125] The plane was found the day after, which crashed on Mt. Kalatungan, in the southern province of Bukidnon. Both pilots were found dead.^[126]

On March 25, 2025, Philippine Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. honored Filipino heroes of the Korean War during his visit to the War Memorial of Korea. Impressed by the FA-50’s capabilities, he reaffirmed plans to expand the fleet with 12 additional jets.^[127]

On April 8, 2025, Colonel Ma. Consuelo Castillo of the Philippine Air Force (PAF) clarified that the fatal FA-50 crash in Bukidnon was not caused by technical or mechanical failure. The PAF’s investigation identified a combination of factors, including the inherent risks of night flying over mountainous terrain, limited visibility, challenging wind conditions, and the complexity of multi-aircraft combat operations requiring flawless coordination. Castillo emphasized the PAF’s commitment to improving safety protocols, mission planning, and inter-service coordination to prevent similar incidents in future air support operations.^[128]

In September 2015, the Thai government chose the T-50TH for its air force over the ChineseHongdu L-15 to replace its agingL-39 Albatros trainers. The four T-50THs were scheduled to be delivered by March 2018.^{[129][130][131]} In July 2017, Thailand's government approved the procurement of eight more aircraft^[132][133] Deliveries began in January 2018.^[134]

On July 22, 2022, Poland's Defense MinisterMariusz Blaszczak said in a media interview that the country is buying 48 FA-50 fighters.^[135] On July 28, KAI officially signed the deal for 12 FA-50 Block 10 and 36 FA-50PL Block 20 with the Polish government;^[136] deliveries are to start in 2023.^[137] Blaszczak said KAI's ability to deliver the aircraft quickly was the decisive factor in it being chosen. As a result of the2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, thePolish Air Force desired urgently to replace their remainingMiG-29 fighter andSu-22 attack aircraft and the U.S. was unable to supply additional F-16s in such a short timeframe. Along with the fighters, KAI is expected to help establish a servicing center for them in Poland in cooperation with Polish defense industries by 2026.^[138]

On February 24, 2023, KAI announced the signing of a $920 million deal with the Malaysian Ministry of Defence for the purchase of 18 FA-50 Block 20 for theRoyal Malaysian Air Force's light combat aircraft (LCA) and fighter in-lead trainer (FLIT) tender,^[139] which is intended to replace theAermacchi MB-339 and Hawk Mk 108/208 currently in service.^[140] The FA-50 was in competition with the IndianHAL Tejas, ItalianAlenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, TurkishTAI Hürjet, Chinese Hongdu L-15, RussianMikoyan MiG-35, and Sino-PakistaniJF-17 Thunder.^[141] On May 23, 2023, Malaysia signed a $920 million final contract with KAI to purchase 18 FA-50 Block 20s.^[142] KAI officials said Malaysia is willing to order 18 more FA-50s later.^[143]

• T-50 Golden Eagle: Advanced trainer version.^[144]
  • T-50B: Aerobatic-specialized T-50 version.^[144] Used by ROKAF's aerobatic display team, theBlack Eagles.
  • TA-50:Lead-in fighter trainer andlight attack version.^[144]
• FA-50 Fighting Eagle: Light fighter/attack version, originally named A-50. A prototype from a converted T-50 first flew in 2011.^{[144][145][146]}
  • FA-50 Block 10: Software upgrades to enable integration of Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 Sniper targeting pod^[147]
  • FA-50 Block 20: An upgraded variant incorporating a range of enhancements intended to expand its operational capabilities. While specific configurations may vary depending on the requirements of individual operators several key features are common across planned versions. These include the integration of a telescopic aerial refueling probe developed by Cobham Mission Systems,^[148] 300-gallon conformal fuel tanks to extend range, and an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. Additional upgrades encompass improved avionics, a helmet-mounted display (HMD), and compatibility with a wider array of munitions. These include laser-guided bombs such as the GBU-12, advanced short-range air-to-air missiles, as well as medium- to long-range air-to-air missiles.^[149] While these capabilities have been outlined in development plans, the final implementation may differ based on political and logistical considerations for each customer nation.

• F-50: The F-50 is a proposed single–seat multirole fighter variant. In 2016 it was cancelled in favor of theKAI KF-21.^[150] In 2024, KAI announced that it had resumed working on the project again.^[151]

  Indonesia

• T-50i: Version of the T-50 forIndonesian Air Force^[85][88]

  Iraq

• T-50IQ: Version of the FA-50 forIraqi Air Force^[94][93]

  Malaysia

• FA-50M: Version of the FA-50 Block 20 for theRoyal Malaysian Air Force^[152]

  Philippines

• FA-50PH: Version of the FA-50 for thePhilippine Air Force^[153]

  Poland

• FA-50GF: Version of the FA-50 Block 10 for thePolish Air Force^[154]
• FA-50PL: Version of the FA-50 Block 20 for the Polish Air Force^[154]

  Thailand

• T-50TH: Version of the T-50 for theRoyal Thai Air Force.^[155] with some FA-50/TA-50 equipment and capability such asEL/M-2032 radar,MIL-STD-1760 interface,20 mm gun,radar warning receiver, and countermeasures dispenser system. Compatible withlaser-guided bombs,AIM-9 Sidewinder andAGM-65 Maverick, integration forbeyond-visual-range missile^[156][157] Locally designatedB.KhF.2 (Thai:บ.ขฝ.๒).^[158]

  United States

• T-50A: Failed candidate for the US Air ForceT-X program, based on the FA-50.^[159]
• TF-50A: Candidate for the US Air Force Advanced Tactical Trainer program, based on the FA-50.^[160][161]
• TF-50N: Candidate for the US Navy Tactical Surrogate Aircraft program and the Undergraduate Jet Training System program, based on the FA-50.^{[160][162][161]}

  Indonesia

• Indonesian Air Force – 16 T-50i trainers were delivered by January 2014. These were fitted withEL/M-2032 radars and cannons in 2018.^[163][164] 13 aircraft are in service as of August 2023.^[165] In July 2021, Indonesia signed a contract for a further six planes at a cost of US$240 million with delivery by October 2024.^[166][167]

  Iraq

• Iraqi Air Force – 24 T-50IQ light fighters were delivered by November 2019.^[168]

  Malaysia

• Royal Malaysian Air Force – 18 units of FA-50M Block 20 on order.^[140]

  Philippines

• Philippine Air Force – 12 FA-50PH light fighters were delivered by May 2017.^[106] 11 aircraft are in service as of March 2025.^[169]

  Poland

• Polish Air Force – 12 FA-50GF Block 10 and 36 FA-50PL Block 20 on order.^[154]

  South Korea

• Republic of Korea Air Force – 50 T-50s, 10 T-50Bs, 22 TA-50s,^[170] and 60 FA-50s^[171] (142 total) aircraft in service as of October 2016.

  Thailand

• Royal Thai Air Force – 14 T-50TH trainers ordered in total. The first four aircraft were delivered in April 2018.^[172]

Legend of the colored numbers in the table

• Azerbaijan:Azerbaijani Air Forces has expressed interest in purchasing T-50 trainers.^[174]
• Bolivia: the T-50 has been offered to theBolivian Air Force as their new light jet fighter.^[175]
• Botswana: The FA-50 was offered to Botswana.^[176]
• Brunei: TheRoyal Brunei Air Force has expressed interest in the FA-50.^[177]
• Colombia: On April 29, 2022, it was rumored that the Colombian Air Force had chosen 20 TA-50s and FA-50s as its next trainer and fighter,^[178] but it was later denied by the Colombian Air Force.^[179]
• Croatia: The FA-50 is also being offered toCroatia, which is deciding on a replacement for its aging fleet ofMiG-21BIS aircraft.^[180] However, in October 2017, KAI did not bid^[181] as the FA-50 could not satisfy the Croatian fighter requirements.^{[citation needed]} TheCroatian Air Force then selected the FrenchRafale.^{[citation needed]} Croatia needs to purchase lead in-trainer aircraft that KAI could bid on. The program is yet to be announced by the Croatian government.^{[citation needed]}
• Egypt: On January 16, 2023,Egypt's state-ownedArab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) confirmed an agreement to produce the T-50 advanced trainers and the armed FA-50 locally in Egypt. TheEgyptian Air Force is to operate the T-50/FA-50 jet as a replacement to their aging fleet ofAlpha Jets and ChineseKarakorum-8 trainer jets.^{[citation needed]}
• Pakistan: ThePakistan Air Force is considering the purchase of the South Korean KAI T-50 Lead-in Fighter Trainer (LIFT) to revamp its air force training program.^[182]
• Peru: The FA-50 is being offered to Peru.^[183] On June 23, 2024, it was reported that KAI andPeruvian Air Force will signed a MoU for 20 FA-50s. Is expected for the MoU to be signed in July and a contract signed by end of year.^[184] 20 to 24 FA-50 in advanced negotiations for their purchase.^[185]
• Senegal: Senegal announced that they will acquire the FA-50 on January 29, 2024.^[186]
• Spain: TheSpanish Air Force was interested in a cooperation agreement with South Korea for the use of training aircraft such as the T-50.^[187] In 2018,Spain held talks with South Korea to swap 50 basic T-50 trainers for 4 to 5 AirbusA400M airlifters.^[188][189]
• Slovakia: On October 3, 2021Yonhap News Agency reported thatKorea Aerospace Industries (KAI) was seeking to export the FA-50 to theSlovak Air Force.^[190] Amemorandum of understanding (MOU) was reportedly signed between KAI and LOTN, aSlovakianstate-owned enterprise to facilitate industrial offset negotiations.
• United Arab Emirates: TheUnited Arab Emirates Air Force is seeking 35–40 fighter-trainers. In February 2009, the UAE selected theM-346 over the T-50.^[191] In January 2010, the UAE reopened the trainer contest.^[192] In 2011, it was confirmed that the T-50 was still competing for the UAE purchase.^[193]
• United States: The TF-50A, a variant FA-50, is one of the contenders for theU.S. Air Force'sAdvanced Tactical Trainer program, with plans to build between 100 and 400 aircraft.^[160] The TF-50N, a variant FA-50, is one of the contenders for theU.S. Navy'sTactical Surrogate Aircraft program, planning to manufacture 64 aircraft.^[160] The TF-50N is also one of the contenders for theU.S. Navy'sUndergraduate Jet Training System (UJTS) program, planning to manufacture 145 aircraft.^{[194][162][161]}
• Vietnam: TheGovernment of Vietnam looks to purchase FA-50 light fighters from the U.S. and South Korea.^[195]

• Argentina: TheArgentine Air Force evaluated the FA-50 as a potential new platform in 2016.^[196] Argentina sought to buy the FA-50 through repatriation in Korea; the Argentine defense minister reported stated that when the financial aid was secured, a contract for the FA-50 with KAI could be signed by December 2017.^[197] By July 2019, Argentina was set to buy FA-50s as an interim replacement for the retired Mirage 3, 5, and Dagger force, and to help replace theA-4AR Fightinghawk fleet, as those aircraft are aging and becoming difficult to maintain.^[198][199] KAI later notified Argentina that a sale was not possible as the UK blocked it due to anarms embargo — the aircraft features various British components, includingMartin-Baker ejection seats.^[200]
• Israel: TheIsraeli Air Force evaluated the T-50 as a possible replacement for itsMcDonnell Douglas A-4N Skyhawk II trainers since 2003.^[201] On February 16, 2012, Israel announced its decision to procure 30Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Masters instead.^[202][203]
• Singapore: TheRepublic of Singapore Air Force evaluated the T-50 against theAlenia Aermacchi M-346 and the BAE Systems Hawk for a $500 million contract for 12–16 trainers.^[204] The Singapore Ministry of Defense selected the M-346 in July 2010.^[205]
• Taiwan: TheRepublic of China Air Force is looking to replace its current fleet ofAT-3 jet trainers andF-5 LIFT planes with 66 advanced trainers, bothLockheed Martin with the T-50 and Alenia Aermacchi with the M-346 responded to a request for information (RFI). They were expected to be license produced in Taiwan with a local partner firm, and the overall estimated contract value is 69 billion New Taiwan dollars (US$2.2 billion).^[206] However,Taiwan decided to build 66AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle supersonic trainers based on Taiwan's existingAIDC F-CK-1 Ching-kuo fighters for NT$68.6 billion instead of selecting the T-50 or M-346.^[207]
• United States: The T-50A was a contender for theU.S. Air Force'sT-X program, with an opportunity to export 300 to 1,000 aircraft.^[22][208] In September 2018 the USAF selectedBoeing'sT-7 trainer.^[209][22] In January 2020, the USAF gave notice that it would lease four to eight T-50A trainers from Hillwood Aviation due to the T-7A being delayed.^[210] In August 2020 the acquisition was delayed due to theCOVID-19 pandemic; in October it was announced that the plan had been further delayed.^[211]
• Uzbekistan: In October 2015, the U.S. refused to approve the sale of T-50s toUzbekistan.^[212][213] The T-50 uses a US-made engine, the F404, which requires a US export license to re-export to another country along the T-50.^[214]

• On November 15, 2012, a South Korean air force pilot from the Black Eagles aerobatic display team was killed when his T-50B crashed in the mountains of Hoengsong, about 48 nm (90 km) east of Seoul,^[215] due to human error during a maintenance operation.^[216]
• On December 20, 2015, anIndonesian Air Force T-50i crashed while performing a demonstration during an airshow atAdisutjipto Air Base inYogyakarta, killing its two pilots,^[217] possibly caused by pilot error.^[218]
• On August 10, 2020, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i pilot died from injuries sustained during a training accident at theIswahyudi Air Force Base.^[219]
• On July 19, 2022, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i crashed inCentral Java during a nighttime training mission, killing its pilot.^[220]
• On March 4, 2025, aPhilippine Air Force FA-50PH with two pilots crashed intoMount Kalatungan inBukidnon during an operation against theNew People's Army, killing its two crew.^[221]

Data fromKorea Aerospace Industries^{[222][47][223]}

General characteristics

• Crew: 2
• Length: 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in)
• Wingspan: 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in) with wingtip missiles
• Height: 4.82 m (15 ft 8 in)
• Wing area: 23.69 m² (255.0 sq ft)^[224]
• Empty weight: 6,470 kg (14,285 lb)
• Max takeoff weight: 10,722 kg (23,638 lb)
• Fuel capacity: 2,655 liters (701 U.S. gal) internal
• Powerplant: 1 ×General Electric F404-GE-102afterburningturbofan engine (built under license bySamsung Techwin^[14]), 53.07 kN (11,930 lbf) thrust dry, 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) with afterburner

Performance

• Maximum speed: 1,840 km/h (1,140 mph, 990 kn) at 9,150 m (30,000 ft)
• Maximum speed: Mach 1.5^[47][225]
• Range: 1,851 km (1,150 mi, 999 nmi)
• Service ceiling: 14,630 m (48,000 ft)
• g limits:+8−3
• Rate of climb: 198 m/s (39,000 ft/min)
• Thrust/weight: 0.96

Note: armament forTA-50 andFA-50 only.

Armament

• Guns: 1×General DynamicsM197 20mm (0.787 in) 3-barrel rotary electric cannon, 205 rounds^{[11][70][226]}
• Hardpoints: Total of 7 with 4 underwing 2 wingtip and one under fuselage; holding up to 5,400 kg (12,000 lb) of payload^[224]
• Missiles:
  
  • Air-to-air missiles:
    • Python-5 (planned for Block 10)^[229]
    • I-Derby ER (planned for Block 10)^[230]
    • AIM-9L/M Sidewinder (Block 10)^[223]
    • AIM-9X Sidewinder (planned for Block 20)^[223]
    • AIM-120 AMRAAM (planned for Block 20)^[37][227]
    • AIM-132 ASRAAM (planned for Block 20)^[231]
    • IRIS-T (planned for Block 20)^[232]
  • Air-to-ground missiles:
    • AGM-65 Maverick^[223]
    • MBDA Brimstone (planned for Block 20)
    • SPEAR 3 (planned for Block 20)
    • KEPD 350K-2 (planned for Block 20)^[233][234]
  • Anti-ship missiles:
    • Joint Strike Missile (planned for Block 20)
• Bombs:
  
  • CBU-97/105 Sensor Fuzed Weapon
  • GBU-12 (FA-50 Block 10 improvement)^[227]
  • Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) bombs^[223]
  • KGGB^[228]
  • KGGB 2 (in progress)
  • Mark 82 bomb
  • Mark 83 bomb
  • Spice-equipped bombs
  • SUU-20 Dispenser^[223]
  • Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser (WCMD)
• Others:
  • Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (FA-50 Block 10 improvement)^[227]

Avionics

• Lockheed MartinAN/APG-67 (T-50IQ)
• EltaEL/M-2032 (TA-50 and FA-50 Block 10)
• Raytheon PhantomStrike air-cooled AESA radar (FA-50 Block 20 improvement)^[38][39]
• LIG Nex1 ESR-500A air-cooled AESA radar (Option for FA-50 Block 20)^[235]

Related development

• General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

• Aero L-159 ALCA
• AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle
• Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master
• Boeing–Saab T-7 Red Hawk
• Guizhou JL-9
• HAL HLFT-42
• Hongdu JL-10
• TAI Hürjet
• Yakovlev Yak-130

• KAI T-50 page
• Lockheed Martin T-50 product page
• "Black Eagles" Aerobatic Team on KAI T-50 Golden Eagle onYouTube