South Korean police raid KAI office over KF-21 tech leak
The security investigation bureau of Gyeongnam Province police raided the head office of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) on Friday, continuing the operation for the second day. This comes in connection with an ongoing investigation against two Indonesian nationals accused of leaking strategically sensitive technology related to South Korea and Indonesia’s joint KF-21 fighter jet project.
The engineers are suspected of breaching the Defence Acquisition Program Act by leaking KF-21 technologies. A KAI spokesperson said the company fully cooperates with authorities to uncover the truth.
Last month, an Indonesian foreign ministry representative told reporters their government was collecting evidence. The KF-21 is a crucial project for both allies to build a cheaper alternative to the US F-35.
South Korea and Indonesia resolved issues around KF-21 funding last year.
However, concerns remain in South Korea over the adequacy of existing laws to deter illegal technology outflows from major firms. The Supreme Court of Korea has since decided to strengthen penalties for technology theft.
The Indonesian spokesperson stated that both nations will endeavour to address any challenges emerging from their strategic defence cooperation.
