Advanced training for future generations of fighter pilots is now a reality as the first class of 12 Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) student pilots moves toward graduation using the T-50 Golden Eagle total training system, co-developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) Ltd. and Lockheed Martin .

"The T-50 will provide a cost-effective bridge from primary training to high performance fighters for air forces around the world," said J.R.Wildridge, director of business development for Lockheed Martin's T-50 Program. "The T-50 is relatively easy to fly in terms of airframe design, digital flight controls and on-board systems. It includes embedded training features, a mission planning and debriefing system, and a comprehensive ground-based training system."

The T-50 is Korea's first indigenous supersonic aircraft and the world's only high performance, supersonic trainer in production today. The T-50 is exceeding the expectations of operational pilots with its technological advances and capabilities.

With its maneuverability, endurance and integrated systems, the T-50 serves as a lead-in fighter trainer for the ROKAF. Future plans for this advanced jet trainer call for the addition of armament and multi-mode fire control radar and the development of a light combat variant.

Currently, the ROKAF is using the T-50s delivered last year for instructor pilot training. Plans are to deliver a total of 72 T-50s to the ROKAF. To date 15 aircraft have been delivered, all on schedule.

Both KAI and Lockheed Martin are fully confident that with the T-50, student pilots will progress from primary trainers to high-performance, modern operational fighters in a very cost-effective manner. The T-50 is the ideal solution for the training needs of many air forces around the world.

KAI is the prime contractor for the T-50 and Lockheed Martin is the principal subcontractor assisting with development. The two companies are joint participants in international marketing of the T-50.

Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. is the Republic of Korea's national aerospace company, established in 1999 with the consolidation of Samsung Aerospace, Daewoo Heavy Industries, and Hyundai Space and Aircraft Co. KAI lines of business include fixed-wing aircraft, helicopter aircraft and satellites. Its major products are the KF-16, KT-1 basic trainer, T-50, SB427 helicopter, UAVs, aerostructures and KOMPSAT satellite program.

Headquartered in Bethesda, Md., Lockheed Martin Corp. employs about 140,000 people worldwide and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services. The corporation reported 2006 sales of $39.6 billion.

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SOURCE: Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company