South Korea Develops Carrier-Based Heavy-Class UCAV for Deployment on Ghost Commander-II

South Korea has initiated the development of a carrier-based unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) as part of its evolving naval strategy. This effort, led by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), reflects a broader shift in defense priorities following the cancellation of the CV-X aircraft carrier project in 2024. The new UCAV is designed to operate from the Ghost Commander-II, a multipurpose command ship developed by Hanwha Ocean, which was unveiled at the MADEX 2025 naval exhibition.

Korea Aerospace Industries

The UCAV is based on a six-ton-class airframe and incorporates structural reinforcements to support arrested landings and catapult launches. It features a tail hook and reinforced landing gear compatible with electromagnetic launch and recovery systems. The aircraft is modular, allowing for interchangeable sensors and payloads, and is expected to carry long-range air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface munitions, and deployable air-launched drones. Its design includes internal weapons bays and low-observable characteristics, aligning with stealth requirements for high-risk maritime operations.

The Ghost Commander-II platform, which replaces the CV-X concept, is a 42,000-ton vessel equipped with electromagnetic catapults, arresting cables, a well deck for amphibious operations, and vertical launch systems. It is intended to support missions ranging from long-range strikes to disaster relief and sea lane protection. This vessel serves as the operational base for the UCAV and other uncrewed systems, integrating artificial intelligence and autonomous capabilities into naval doctrine.

KAI’s UCAV development is part of a broader manned-unmanned teaming initiative, which includes the KF-21 Boramae fighter and the Low Observable Unmanned Wingman System (LOWUS). The naval UCAV differs from LOWUS in payload capacity, structural design, and operational autonomy. It has a maximum takeoff weight under six tons, a payload capacity of 800 kilograms, and a combat radius of approximately 482 kilometers. Powered by a high-bypass turbofan engine, the UCAV is expected to cruise below Mach 0.6. Its modular nose section supports integration of AESA radar, infrared search and track (IRST), electro-optical targeting systems (EOTS), and potentially maritime surveillance radars.

The UCAV is also designed to function as a drone mothership, capable of deploying and coordinating multiple subordinate drones. This capability enables swarm operations and enhances its role in reconnaissance and strike missions. The aircraft’s modular architecture allows for mission-specific adaptations without requiring multiple variants. KAI has indicated that integration with electromagnetic launch systems is essential, and South Korea is developing an eight-ton electromagnetic catapult, with plans to scale up to 20 tons for heavier platforms.

Despite the technical advancements, the program currently lacks a formal acquisition requirement from the South Korean Navy or procurement agencies such as DAPA or ADD. KAI is proceeding independently, positioning itself to respond to future procurement decisions. The UCAV’s development aligns with South Korea’s strategic doctrine, which includes preemptive strike capabilities (kill chain), layered missile defense (KAMD), and retaliatory operations. The drone’s ability to conduct ISR missions, carry standoff weapons, and coordinate with manned aircraft supports these strategic objectives.

KAI is also investing in AI-based autonomy through a partnership with Shield AI, a U.S. firm. This collaboration includes the integration of Hivemind Enterprise software into KAI’s unmanned systems, supporting onboard autonomy, simulation, and mission planning. The AI pilot system, referred to as K-AILOT, is being developed using Shield AI’s software suite and tested on platforms such as the MQ-20 Avenger and X-62 VISTA. KAI has allocated approximately $69.7 million to autonomy and related technologies, partnering with domestic firms to build a national ecosystem for autonomous aviation systems.

The AAP drone platform, serving as a testbed for AI flight control, has a payload capacity of 20 kilograms and an endurance of over 500 kilometers. Demonstration flights are expected in mid-2025. Although the platform currently relies on imported engines, KAI suggests that sufficient demand could justify domestic production. However, challenges remain, including procurement practices that limit serial production and regulatory constraints affecting expendable drone certification. KAI advocates for clearer roles between state institutions and industry to streamline development and deployment.

The strategic rationale for unmanned systems is reinforced by global trends in drone warfare, with examples from Israel, Iran, Ukraine, and Russia. South Korea established a drone operations command in 2023 to conduct reconnaissance, strike, psychological, and electromagnetic warfare missions. The integration of AI-enabled systems aims to reduce exposure of manned platforms by using drones as forward sensors. The two-seat KF-21 variant and FA-50 are expected to serve as controller aircraft in loyal wingman operations.

South Korea’s development of a carrier-based UCAV represents a significant shift in naval strategy, emphasizing modularity, autonomy, and integration with emerging naval platforms. While the program is still in its early stages, it reflects broader trends in defense innovation and strategic adaptation to evolving maritime threats.