KAI T-50 Golden Eagle

{{Short description|Family of South Korean jet aircraft}} {{redirect|KTX-2|the Korea Train Express train known as KTX-II|KTX-Sancheon}} {{Use dmy dates|date=March 2025}} {{Use American English|date=September 2024}} {{Infobox aircraft | name = T-50 / FA-50 | image = Phillipine Air Force FA-50PH.jpg | caption = A Philippine Air Force FA-50PH | alt = | type = T-50: Advanced trainer jet TA-50: Lead-in fighter-trainer FA-50: Light combat aircraft FA-50 Block 20: Multirole light fighter | national_origin = South Korea | manufacturer = Korea Aerospace Industries Lockheed Martin | designer =  | first_flight = 20 August 2002<ref name=Flug_Revue>[https://web.archive.org/web/20100505130612/http://www.flug-revue.rotor.com/FRTypen/FRKTX-2.htm "Korean Aerospace T-50 Golden Eagle"]. Flug Revue, 8 July 2004. [https://web.archive.org/web/20080611102431/http://www.flug-revue.rotor.com/FRTypen/FRKTX-2.htm copy archived 11 June 2008].</ref> | introduction = 22 February 2005<ref name=ThomasNet>[http://news.thomasnet.com/companystory/478296 First T-50 Golden Eagles Delivered to Korean Air Force; Only Supersonic Trainer in Production Today] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090206182444/http://news.thomasnet.com/companystory/478296 |date=6 February 2009}}. Lockheed Martin, 22 February 2006.</ref> | number_built = 200 (all models)<ref>The Political Economy of Change and Continuity in Korea: Twenty Years after the Crisis, Springer (2018), p. 115</ref> | status = In service | produced = 2001–present | primary_user = Republic of Korea Air Force  | more_users = Indonesian Air Force Iraqi Air Force Royal Thai Air Force  }}

The '''KAI T-50 Golden Eagle''' ({{Korean|hangul=골든이글}}) is a family of advanced, supersonic, South Korean jet trainers, light combat aircraft, light strike fighters and multirole light fighters developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) with Lockheed Martin.<ref name=Flug_Revue/> It is South Korea's first indigenous supersonic aircraft and one of the world's few supersonic trainers.<ref name=Due_in_2013>[https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2008/12/205_37021.html "Domestic Light Attack Jets Due in 2013"]. The Korea Times, 30 December 2008.</ref>

Development of the T-50 began in the late 1990s, and its maiden flight occurred in 2002. It entered service with the Republic 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 by Indonesia with 16 planes entering service in 2014 and an additional six aircraft ordered in 2021. The Philippines operates the FA-50 light fighter variant with 12 delivered. 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 by Malaysia in 2023 which ordered 18 of the latest Block 20 variant.

==Development== ===Origins===

The T-50 program was originally intended to develop an indigenous trainer aircraft capable of supersonic flight, to train and prepare pilots for the KF-16 and F-15K, replacing trainers such as T-38 and A-37 that were then in service with the ROKAF.<ref name=DID_T-50>[https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/koreas-t-50-spreads-its-wings-04004/ "Korea's T-50 Family Spreads Its Wings"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111125050/https://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/koreas-t-50-spreads-its-wings-04004/ |date=11 January 2014}}. Defenseindustrydaily.com, 21 August 2013. Retrieved 8 September 2013.</ref> Prior South Korean aircraft programs include the turboprop KT-1 basic trainer produced by Daewoo Aerospace (now part of KAI), and license-manufactured KF-16.<ref name=Flug_Revue/> In general, the T-50 series of aircraft, specifically the FA-50, closely resembles the KF-16 in configuration.<ref>{{Cite web |title=FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft |url=https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/fa-50-light-combat-aircraft-south-korea/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20200813091401/https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/fa-50-light-combat-aircraft-south-korea/ |archive-date=13 August 2020 |access-date=22 August 2023 |website=Air Force Technology}}</ref><ref name=DID_T-50/>

The mother program, code-named KTX-2, began in 1992,<ref name=Aeroflight>[http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/korea/kai/t-50/T-50.htm Korean Aerospace Industries T-50 Golden Eagle] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051027015225/http://www.aeroflight.co.uk/types/korea/kai/t-50/T-50.htm |date=27 October 2005}}. Aeroflight</ref> but the Ministry of Finance and Economy suspended KTX-2 in 1995 due to financial constraints.<ref name=glob_sec_KTX-2>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/ktx-2.htm "KTX-2 Indigenous Trainer"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070320052954/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/ktx-2.htm |date=20 March 2007}}. GlobalSecurity.org</ref> The basic design of the aircraft was set by 1999.<ref name=Flug_Revue/> The development of the aircraft was funded 70% by the South Korean government, 17% by KAI, and 13% by Lockheed Martin.<ref name=Flug_Revue/>

The aircraft was formally designated as the T-50 Golden Eagle in February 2000.<ref name=Flug_Revue/> The T-50A designation was reserved by the U.S. military to prevent it from being inadvertently assigned to another aircraft model.<ref>[http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/412015-L(addendum).html#_Note_T50A DOD 4120.15-L – Addendum, MDS Designators] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326135853/http://designation-systems.net/usmilav/412015-L(addendum).html#_Note_T50A |date=26 March 2012}}, Designation-Systems.net.</ref><ref name=designation-systems>{{cite web |url= http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/missing-mds.html |title= "Missing" USAF/DOD Aircraft Designations |author= Parsch, Andreas |access-date= 16 February 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081225020003/http://www.designation-systems.net/usmilav/missing-mds.html |archive-date= 25 December 2008 |url-status= live}}</ref> Final assembly of the first T-50 took place between 15 January – 14 September 2001.<ref name=Flug_Revue/> The first flight of the T-50 took place in August 2002, with initial operational assessment from 28 July – 14 August 2003.<ref name=Flug_Revue/>

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.<ref name=air_force_tech>[http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/t-50/ T-50 Golden Eagle Jet Trainer and Light Attack Aircraft, South Korea] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061006003359/http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/t-50/ |date=6 October 2006}}. Air Force Technology.</ref>{{Unreliable source? |reason=domain on WP:BLACKLIST |date=August 2016}} Original T-50 aircraft are equipped with the AN/APG-67(v)4 radar from Lockheed Martin.<ref>[http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/dubai-air-show/2006-12-11/korean-t-50-displays-fast-jet-credentials "Korean T-50 displays fast-jet credentials"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140905055753/http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/dubai-air-show/2006-12-11/korean-t-50-displays-fast-jet-credentials |date=5 September 2014}}. AIN Online, 11 December 2006.</ref> The T-50 is equipped with a GE F404 engine with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) built under license by Samsung Techwin.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bainesplanes.co.uk/photography/black-eagles-aerobatic-display-team.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130620024818/http://www.bainesplanes.co.uk/photography/black-eagles-aerobatic-display-team.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=20 June 2013 |title=Black Eagles aerobatic display team |website=bainesplanes.co.uk |access-date=16 June 2013}}</ref> 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.<ref name=F404_engines>{{cite web |url=http://www.geaviation.com/press/military/military_20070124b.html |title=Republic of Korea orders 57 F404 Engine Kits for T-50 Trainers |website=GE Aviation |access-date=16 June 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203004743/http://www.geaviation.com/press/military/military_20070124b.html |archive-date=3 December 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Improved variants=== thumb|FA-50 prototype 001 on test flight The program has expanded beyond a trainer concept to include the TA-50 light attack aircraft and the FA-50 light combat aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/-fa-50-light-combat-aircraft-south-korea/ |title=FA-50 Light Combat Aircraft – Airforce Technology |access-date=16 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622005324/http://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/-fa-50-light-combat-aircraft-south-korea/ |archive-date=22 June 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> 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 the Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-kai-rolls-out-first-production-ta-50-352346/ |title=PICTURES: KAI rolls out first production T/A-50 |date=26 January 2011 |access-date=6 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111217084623/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-kai-rolls-out-first-production-ta-50-352346/ |archive-date=17 December 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> The TA-50 is designed to operate as a full-fledged combat platform for precision-guided weapons, air-to-air missiles,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://article.joinsmsn.com/news/article/article.asp?Total_ID=2561555 |script-title=ko:[사진] 국산 초음속 경공격기 "발사" |date=9 January 2007 |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426195233/http://article.joinsmsn.com/news/article/article.asp?Total_ID=2561555 |archive-date=26 April 2012}}</ref> and air-to-ground missiles.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/kdd/GisaView.jsp?menuCd=3004&menuSeq=2&menuCnt=30911&writeDate=20060125&kindSeq=2&writeDateChk=20060125 |title=A-50 Successful AGM-65 Launch |access-date=26 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223190008/http://kookbang.dema.mil.kr/kdd/GisaView.jsp?menuCd=3004&menuSeq=2&menuCnt=30911&writeDate=20060125&kindSeq=2&writeDateChk=20060125 |archive-date=23 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL066/upload/2006/11/A-50-1.jpg |title=A-50 Growth Capability |access-date=26 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223145537/http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL066/upload/2006/11/A-50-1.jpg |archive-date=23 December 2015 |url-status=live |language=en}}</ref>

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.<ref name=FG_Israeli_pitch>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2001/12/04/139725/ta-50-makers-plan-israeli-pitch.html T/A-50 makers plan Israeli pitch] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210140900/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2001/12/04/139725/ta-50-makers-plan-israeli-pitch.html |date=10 February 2009}}. Flightglobal.com. Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref> It is equipped with a modified Israeli EL/M-2032 pulse-Doppler radar with Korean-specific modifications by LIG Nex1.<ref>International, Forecast. (28 July 2009) [http://www.defencetalk.com/south-korea-and-israel-to-jointly-develop-radar-20670/ South Korea and Israel to Jointly Develop Radar] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110121221325/http://www.defencetalk.com/south-korea-and-israel-to-jointly-develop-radar-20670/ |date=21 January 2011}}. Defencetalk.com. Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref> The engine could be either Eurojet EJ200 or General Electric F414 with thrust of {{convert|20000|to|22000|lbf|kN|abbr=on|order=flip}}, roughly 12–25% higher than the F404's thrust;<ref name="fg_re-engining">{{cite web|author=Trimble, Stephen|date=24 May 2011|title=Lockheed ponders T-50 re-engining for T-X programme|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/05/24/357148/lockheed-ponders-t-50-re-engining-for-t-x-programme.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110528161823/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2011/05/24/357148/lockheed-ponders-t-50-re-engining-for-t-x-programme.html|archive-date=28 May 2011|access-date=10 November 2016|work=Flightglobal}}</ref><ref name=t-50eurojet>{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/biz/2011/10/123_96650.html |title=Eurojet offers Korea chance to join consortium |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=20 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111116104841/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/biz/2011/10/123_96650.html |archive-date=16 November 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.kbs.co.kr/tvnews/news9/2011/06/06/2303163.html |script-title=ko:'국산 공격기' FA-50 시범 비행 최초 공개 |access-date=6 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111124055911/http://news.kbs.co.kr/tvnews/news9/2011/06/06/2303163.html |archive-date=24 November 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The EL/M-2032 was initially chosen over Lockheed Martin's preferred AN/APG-67(V)4 and SELEX Vixen 500E active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars. Other AESA radars such as Raytheon's AN/APG-79 and Northrop Grumman's AN/APG-83 are options for future production,<ref name=FG_FA-50_order>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/01/07/320726/south-korea-orders-kai-fa-50-light-attack-fighter-prototypes.html South Korea orders KAI F/A-50 light attack fighter prototypes] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090210134833/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2009/01/07/320726/south-korea-orders-kai-fa-50-light-attack-fighter-prototypes.html |date=10 February 2009}}. Flightglobal.com. Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref><ref name=fg_spreadwings>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/kai-bids-to-spread-wings-with-golden-eagle-362567/ |title=KAI bids to spread wings with Golden Eagle |date=14 October 2011 |access-date=22 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111211025517/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/kai-bids-to-spread-wings-with-golden-eagle-362567/ |archive-date=11 December 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> and may be shared with the radar chosen for USAF and ROKAF F-16 fighters.<ref name=fgfa-50>{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/seoul-places-600m-order-for-20-fa-50s-366500/ |title=Seoul places $600m order for 20 FA-50s |date=4 January 2012 |access-date=4 January 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109002707/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/seoul-places-600m-order-for-20-fa-50s-366500/ |archive-date=9 January 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> During the 2010s, Samsung Thales independently worked on a domestic multi-mode AESA radar for the FA-50.<ref name=STCAESA>[http://www.samsungthales.com/eng/main.asp Archived copy] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206110221/http://samsungthales.com/eng/main.asp |date=6 December 2013}} Samsung Thales: Multi-Mode Active Phase Array Radar (FA50)</ref>

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.<ref name=fgfa-50/> The maiden flight of the FA-50 took place in 2011.<ref name=dcn>[http://dcn.or.kr/101161 FA-50 prototype] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120313032339/http://dcn.or.kr/101161 |date=13 March 2012}}</ref> 60 FA-50 aircraft are to be produced for the ROKAF from 2013 to 2016.<ref name=yonhapfa-50>{{cite web |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2011/11/04/53/0301000000AEN20111104008100315F.HTML |title=S. Korea to mass-produce armed version of trainer jet starting in 2013 |access-date=20 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111106221218/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2011/11/04/53/0301000000AEN20111104008100315F.HTML |archive-date=6 November 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> KAI received a {{KRWConvert|1100|b|year=2013|showdate=no}} order for the FA-50 in May 2013.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/kai-wins-w11tn-contract-for-fa-50-fighters/109631.article |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130607001705/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/kai-wins-w11tn-contract-for-fa-50-fighters-385524/ |url-status=dead |title=KAI wins W1.1tn contract for FA-50 fighters |first=Greg |last=Waldron |archivedate=7 June 2013 |website=Flight Global |access-date=4 April 2023}}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/awindefense/testing-kai-lm-t-50-t-x-upgrade-start-2016 |title=Testing Of KAI-LM T-50 T-X Upgrade To Start In 2016 |access-date=18 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222172342/http://aviationweek.com/awindefense/testing-kai-lm-t-50-t-x-upgrade-start-2016 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-kai-lockheed-rollout-t-x-prototype-420149/ |title=PICTURES: KAI, Lockheed rollout T-X prototype |date=17 December 2015 |access-date=18 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170225125806/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/pictures-kai-lockheed-rollout-t-x-prototype-420149/ |archive-date=25 February 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-proposes-kai-t-50a-for-t-x-over-skunk-works-421837/ Lockheed proposes KAI T-50A for T-X over Skunk Works design] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160212082555/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/lockheed-proposes-kai-t-50a-for-t-x-over-skunk-works-421837/ |date=12 February 2016}} – Flightglobal.com, 11 February 2016</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/training-simulation/adex-2017-kai-unveils-t-50a-variant/ |title=ADEX 2017: KAI unveils T-50A variant |website=shephardmedia.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019215626/https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/training-simulation/adex-2017-kai-unveils-t-50a-variant/ |archive-date=19 October 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> 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 Martin AN/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.<ref name="ainonline.com">{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-01-22/kai-developing-smarter-fa-50-golden-eagle |title= KAI Developing Smarter FA-50 Golden Eagle | Defense News: Aviation International News |access-date=26 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190126164340/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-01-22/kai-developing-smarter-fa-50-golden-eagle |archive-date=26 January 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref>

On 15 May 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 {{convert|68|kg|lb|abbr=on}} (lighter than the existing FA-50 radar) and is an air-cooled compact AESA radar with digital beam forming and steering, multi-mode functionality and interleaved ground and air targeting capabilities. PhantomStrike was delivered to KAI in 2025, according to Raytheon.<ref name="Raytheon 2025-10-20">{{cite web|url=https://www.rtx.com/news/news-center/2025/10/20/rtxs-raytheon-delivers-first-phantomstrike-radar-for-korea-aerospace-industries|title=RTX's Raytheon delivers first PhantomStrike® radar for Korea Aerospace Industries' FA-50 fleet|publisher=Raytheon Technologies|date=20 October 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20251028082924/https://www.rtx.com/news/news-center/2025/10/20/rtxs-raytheon-delivers-first-phantomstrike-radar-for-korea-aerospace-industries|archivedate=28 October 2025|url-status=live}}</ref>

KAI had developed plans for a single-seat version of the FA-50 designated the '''F-50'''. This plan was initially put on hold to focus on development of the KF-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.<ref>[https://breakingdefense.com/2023/06/korean-aerospace-industries-long-term-plan-to-become-a-major-combat-aircraft-supplier/ Korean Aerospace Industries eyes new fighter designs, FA-50 sales in Pacific]. ''Breaking Defense''. 1 June 2023.</ref> The South Korean Ministry 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 {{convert|300|gal|l|adj=on|order=flip}} auxiliary fuel system that will extend its operational radius over the FA-50's {{cvt|239|nmi|km}} by 20%–30%.<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 May 2024 |title=South Korean ministry plans single-seat FA-50 investment |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/south-korean-ministry-plans-single-seat-fa-50-investment |access-date= |website=Janes Information Services |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240508064407/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/south-korean-ministry-plans-single-seat-fa-50-investment |archive-date=8 May 2024 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Design== ===Overview=== [[File:KAI T-50 Golden Eagle Demo flight.jpg|thumb|A T-50 squadron performing aerobatic maneuvers during a demonstration flight]]

The T-50 Golden Eagle resembles the F-16 Fighting Falcon, though it is only 80% of the size.<ref name=Aeroflight/> The trainer has seating for two pilots in a tandem arrangement. The high-mounted canopy developed by Hankuk Fiber is applied with stretched 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hfiber.com/hfg_web/prod/prod_sp_air_02.asp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802202947/http://www.hfiber.com/hfg_web/prod/prod_sp_air_02.asp |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 August 2020 |title=Hankuk Fiber T-50 Canopy |website= hfiber.com }}</ref> The altitude limit is 14,600 m (48,000 ft), and the airframe is designed to last 8,000 hours of service.<ref name=Glob_sec_T-50/> 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.<ref name=air_force_tech/> T-50 trainer variants have a paint scheme of white and red, and aerobatic variants white, black, and yellow.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mnm.seoul.co.kr/news/newsView.php?id=20101203040003 |script-title=ko:서울신문 – 맛있는 정보! 신선한 뉴스! |access-date=25 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425093012/http://mnm.seoul.co.kr/news/newsView.php?id=20101203040003 |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref>

The T-50 uses a single General Electric F404-102 turbofan engine license-produced by Samsung Techwin,<ref>[http://www.ndia.org/Divisions/Divisions/International/Documents/Access%20to%20U.S.%20Maintenance%20System%20-%20Samsung%20Techwin.pdf Repair & overhaul services for USFK helicopter engines] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717061105/http://www.ndia.org/Divisions/Divisions/International/Documents/Access%20to%20U.S.%20Maintenance%20System%20-%20Samsung%20Techwin.pdf |date=17 July 2011}}, 2009</ref> upgraded with a FADEC system jointly developed by General Electric and KAI.<ref>[http://www.geae.com/engines/military/f404/spotlight_f404versatility.html GE – Aviation: F404] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100925195843/http://geae.com/engines/military/f404/spotlight_f404versatility.html |date=25 September 2010}}. Geae.com (25 May 2011). Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref> The engine consists of three-staged fans, a seven-axial-stage arrangement, and an afterburner.<ref name=air_force_tech/> The aircraft has a maximum speed of Mach 1.5.<ref name=KAI_specs/> Its engine produces a maximum of 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) of thrust with afterburner.<ref name=air_force_tech/> The more powerful GE F414 and Eurojet EJ200 engines have been suggested as the new engine for the T-50 family.<ref name=fg_re-engining/>

===Avionics=== thumb|FA-50PH's rear cockpit

Lockheed Martin designed many of the avionics and provides the fly-by-wire system.<ref name=Aeroflight/> The T-50's central processing unit and its operating system are developed by MDS Technology.<ref name=mdstec>{{cite web |url=http://www.mdstec.com/main/eng/?no=297 |title=MDS Technology NEOS RTOS |website=MDS Technology |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714063534/http://www.mdstec.com/main/eng/?no=297 |archive-date=14 July 2011}}</ref> The T-50's NEOS avionics operating system is the first and only real-time operating system to be developed by an Asian company, and holds both DO-178B and IEEE POSIX certification.<ref name=mdstec/><ref>[http://www.vectorcast.com/pdf/case-study-mds.pdf "MDS Technology relies on VectorCAST for DO-178B Level A certification testing"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110717192818/http://www.vectorcast.com/pdf/case-study-mds.pdf |date=17 July 2011}} (PDF). vectorcast.com. Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://postfiles10.naver.net/20110424_265/cutysio_1303608845530XGWge_JPEG/mds%C5%D7%C5%A9_2011%C1%F6%BD%C4%B0%E6%C1%A6RD%BC%BA%B0%FA%C0%FC%BD%C3%C8%B84.JPG?type=w2 |title=MDS Technology NEOS Version 3.0 RTOS IEEE POSIX certification |website=naver.net}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://postfiles15.naver.net/20110424_254/cutysio_1303608845767M2e0x_JPEG/mds%C5%D7%C5%A9_2011%C1%F6%BD%C4%B0%E6%C1%A6RD%BC%BA%B0%FA%C0%FC%BD%C3%C8%B85.JPG?type=w2 |title=Software Accomplishments Summary for the NEOS-178S Operating System |website=naver.net}}</ref> Samsung Thales and LIG Nex1 are the main avionics and Electronic warfare equipment developers for T-50 and its variants.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.samsungthales.com/eng/product/product.asp?idx=54 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120919143810/http://www.samsungthales.com/eng/product/product.asp?idx=54 |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 September 2012 |title=Samsung Thales Avionics/Electronic Warfare Systems |website=samsungthales.com }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.lignex1.com:8001/eng/business/business02_05_02.jsp |title=LIG Nex1 Avionics |website=lignex1.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406022712/http://www.lignex1.com:8001/eng/business/business02_05_02.jsp |archive-date=6 April 2012}}</ref> 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,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_1_3.php |title=DoDAAM Systems SMC |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710142908/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_1_3.php |archive-date=10 July 2011}}</ref> avionics testing equipment,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_1.php |title=DoDAAM Systems ATE |website=dodaam.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143825/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_1.php |archive-date=10 July 2011}}</ref> flight data recorders,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_5.php |title=DoDAAM Systems DPS |website=dodaam.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143401/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_5.php |archive-date=10 July 2011}}</ref> portable maintenance aids,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_4.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143511/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_4.php |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 July 2011 |title=DoDAAM Systems PMA}}</ref> data analysis software,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_6.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143548/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_6.php |url-status=dead |archive-date=10 July 2011 |title=DoDAAM Systems MDAS |website=dodaam.com}}</ref> post-flight data processing system,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://job.incruit.com/jobdb_info/recruiterinfo.asp?mem=MDAwMDg4NzEwNA |script-title=ko:도담시스템스 채용은 인크루트 – 인크루트 기업 홈 : 취업포털 인크루트 |publisher=인크루트(주)}}</ref> aircraft structure and engine management software,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_8.php |title=DoDAAM Systems IEMMS |website= dodaam.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110710143719/http://www.dodaam.com/eng/sub_0203_2_8.php |archive-date=10 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://amc21.co.kr/eng/sub.html?w=01_05&style=01 |title=Aeromaster ASIP/ENSIP |website=amc21.co.kr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722132924/http://amc21.co.kr/eng/sub.html?w=01_05&style=01 |archive-date=22 July 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and mission planning and support systems.<ref name=t-50java>{{cite web |url=https://www.scribd.com/doc/64052084/T-50-Avionics-Embedded-Software-Development-Using-Java |title=T-50 Avionics Embedded Software Development Using Java |access-date=9 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112060536/http://www.scribd.com/doc/64052084/T-50-Avionics-Embedded-Software-Development-Using-Java |archive-date=12 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> The TA-50 version is equipped with an Elta EL/M-2032 fire control radar.<ref name=JDW_TA-50_Phill_select/>

The T-50 is equipped with a Honeywell H-764G embedded global positioning/inertial navigation system and HG9550 radar altimeter.<ref name=air_force_tech/> The aircraft is the first trainer to feature triple-redundant digital fly-by-wire controls.<ref name=Glob_sec_T-50>[http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/t-50.htm T-50 Golden Eagle] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061003050121/http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/rok/t-50.htm |date=3 October 2006}}. GlobalSecurity.org, updated 31 August 2005.</ref> The cockpit panels, switches, and joysticks are produced by South Korea's FirsTec and Sungjin Techwin, head-up display by DoDaaM Systems, and multi-function display by Samsung Thales.<ref name=t-50java/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.firsteccom.co.kr/english/defense/New_de3-1.html |title=FirsTec T-50 Cockpit Panel |website=firsteccom.co.kr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722133509/http://www.firsteccom.co.kr/english/defense/New_de3-1.html |archive-date=22 July 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.donga.com/Economy/New/3/01/20100325/27109902/1&top=1 |title=F-35전투기 조종간 만드는 한국 벤처 |date=25 March 2010 |access-date=1 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303234436/http://news.donga.com/Economy/New/3/01/20100325/27109902/1%26top%3D1 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://postfiles8.naver.net/20110424_279/cutysio_1303608844621PBpzB_JPEG/mds%C5%D7%C5%A9_2011%C1%F6%BD%C4%B0%E6%C1%A6RD%BC%BA%B0%FA%C0%FC%BD%C3%C8%B810.JPG?type=w2 |title=T-50 Components Exhibition |website=firsteccom.co.kr}}</ref> Other South Korean subcontractors such as Elemech, Dawin Friction, and Withus cooperate in T-50 components production.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://postfiles6.naver.net/20110424_165/cutysio_1303608844304Ye8fl_JPEG/mds%C5%D7%C5%A9_2011%C1%F6%BD%C4%B0%E6%C1%A6RD%BC%BA%B0%FA%C0%FC%BD%C3%C8%B81.JPG?type=w2 |title=T-50 Industrial Participants |website=naver.net}}</ref> Hanwha supplies the mechanical parts for the flight control system,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://english.hanwhacorp.co.kr/BusinessArea/Explosives/MachineryAerospace/Aerospace/Aerospace.jsp?menucode=5 |title=Hanwha T-50 flight control system |website=hanwhacorp.co.kr |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100929002820/http://english.hanwhacorp.co.kr/BusinessArea/Explosives/MachineryAerospace/Aerospace/Aerospace.jsp?menucode=5 |archive-date=29 September 2010 |url-status=dead}}</ref> and WIA supplies the undercarriage.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://en.wia.co.kr/product/special_aviation.asp |title=WIA T-50 undercarriage |website=wia.co.kr |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110722135836/http://en.wia.co.kr/product/special_aviation.asp |archive-date=22 July 2011}}</ref>

===Armament and equipment=== [[File:2014.10.8 공군 FA-50 Republic of Korea Air Force (15361855407).jpg|thumb|FA-50 is firing AGM-65G Maverick]]

The TA-50 has a three-barrel M197 cannon, based on the M61 Vulcan, mounted internally behind the cockpit, which fires linkless 20 mm ammunition.<ref name=air_force_tech/><ref name=GD-OTS_M197>{{cite web | title=M-197 20mm Gatling Gun | url=https://www.gd-ots.com/armaments/aircraft-guns-gun-systems/m197/ }}</ref> Wingtip rails can accommodate the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, and a variety of additional weapons can be mounted on underwing hardpoints.<ref name=air_force_tech/> Compatible air-to-surface weapons include the AGM-65 Maverick missile, Hydra 70 and LOGIR rocket launchers, CBU-58 and Mk-20 cluster bombs, and Mk-82, −83, and −84 general-purpose bombs.<ref name=Flug_Revue/>

The FA-50 can be externally fitted with Rafael's Sky Shield or LIG Nex1's ALQ-200K ECM pods, Sniper or LITENING targeting pods, and Condor 2 reconnaissance pods to further improve its electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and targeting capabilities.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL105/upload/2005/10/A-50%20%B9%AB%C0%E5%20%284%29_1.jpg |title=Sniper Targeting Pod for FA-50 |website=bemil.chosun.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL105/upload/2005/10/A-50%20%B9%AB%C0%E5%20%287%29_1.jpg |title=Condor 2 Reconnaissance Pod for FA-50 |website=bemil.chosun.com}}</ref> Other armaments include SPICE multifunctional guidance kits,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL105/upload/2005/10/A-50%20%B9%AB%C0%E5%20%281%29_1.jpg |title=Rafael SPICE 1000 Guided Bomb |website=bemil.chosun.com}}</ref> Textron CBU-97/105 Sensor Fuzed Weapon with WCMD tail kits, JDAM, JDAM-ER for more comprehensive air-to-ground operations, and AIM-120 missiles for BVR air-to-air operations.<ref name=FA-50>[http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/data/10040/upfile/201009/20100925140812_2.jpg FA-50 Expanded Weapons and Avionics] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112060538/http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/data/10040/upfile/201009/20100925140812_2.jpg |date=12 January 2016}}. bemil.chosun.com. Retrieved 5 June 2011.</ref> FA-50 has provisions for, but does not yet integrate, Python and Derby missiles, also produced by Rafael, and other anti-ship missiles, stand-off weapons, and sensors to be domestically developed by Korea.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL105/upload/2005/10/A-50%20%B9%AB%C0%E5%20%286%29_1.jpg |title=AMRAAM and Derby for FA-50 |website=bemil.chosun.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/files/BEMIL105/upload/2005/10/A-50%20%B9%AB%C0%E5%20%2814%29.jpg |title=Python 5 and New Weapons Developed by Korea for FA-50 |website=bemil.chosun.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/in-focus-south-korea-outlines-strategy-for-indigenous-fighter-363847/ |title=IN FOCUS: South Korea outlines strategy for indigenous fighter |newspaper=Flight Global |date=27 October 2011 |access-date=22 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110121335/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/in-focus-south-korea-outlines-strategy-for-indigenous-fighter-363847/ |archive-date=10 November 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> The South Korean military is reviewing whether to arm the FA-50 with a smaller version of the Taurus KEPD 350 missile to give it a stand-off engagement capability of {{convert |400 |km |mi |abbr=on}}.<ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-news-2015/october/2056-south-korea-plans-to-arm-its-fa-50-light-combat-fighters-with-new-variant-of-the-taurus-missile.html South Korea plans to arm its FA-50 light combat fighters with new variant of the Taurus missile] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208074223/http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-news-2015/october/2056-south-korea-plans-to-arm-its-fa-50-light-combat-fighters-with-new-variant-of-the-taurus-missile.html |date=8 December 2015}} – Airrecognition.com, 23 October 2015</ref> European missile maker MBDA's Meteor and ASRAAM medium and short-range air-to-air missiles are also reportedly available for integration on the FA-50 and the KF-X.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-02-03/mbda-show-new-munitions-singapore |title=MBDA To Show New Munitions in Singapore |access-date=7 February 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180207122452/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-02-03/mbda-show-new-munitions-singapore |archive-date=7 February 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Operational history== ===Republic of Korea===

In 2011, the first squadron with the TA-50, the T-50's light attack variant, became operational with the ROKAF.<ref name=yonhap>{{cite web |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2011/06/02/29/0301000000AEN20110602003300315F.HTML |title=Air Force to deploy 20 TA-50 light attack aircraft by next year |access-date=23 July 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810214633/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2011/06/02/29/0301000000AEN20110602003300315F.HTML |archive-date=10 August 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> The ROKAF's Black 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.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2014/10/31/2014103101236.html |title=The Chosun Ilbo (English Edition): Daily News from Korea – Korea Deploys Home-Grown FA-50 Fighter Jets |access-date=18 February 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208032448/http://english.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2014/10/31/2014103101236.html |archive-date=8 February 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 9 October 2014, an FA-50 successfully test fired an AGM-65 Maverick at a stationary target, a retired ship.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation/october-2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-defence-military-industry-/1220-south-korean-kai-fa-50-successfully-test-fired-an-agm-65-maverick-guided-missile.html |title=South Korean KAI FA-50 successfully test-fired an AGM-65 Maverick guided missile |access-date=7 April 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150925212623/http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation/october-2014-global-news-worldwide-world-international-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-defence-military-industry-/1220-south-korean-kai-fa-50-successfully-test-fired-an-agm-65-maverick-guided-missile.html |archive-date=25 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Indonesia=== thumb|Indonesian Air Force T-50i

Indonesia had been considering the T-50, along with four other aircraft to replace its BAE Systems Hawk Mk 53 trainer and OV-10 Bronco attack aircraft.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/01/14/337081/indonesian-air-force-seeks-to-revive-light-attack-trainer.html "Indonesian air force seeks to revive light attack, trainer procurements"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100117100421/http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/2010/01/14/337081/indonesian-air-force-seeks-to-revive-light-attack-trainer.html |date=17 January 2010}}. Flightglobal.com, 14 January 2010. Retrieved 26 July 2013.</ref> In August 2010, Indonesia announced that T-50, Yak-130 and L-159 were the remaining candidates for its requirement for 16 advanced jet trainers.<ref>[https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2010/09/205_71121.html "Indonesia shortlists T-50 for trainer jet requirement"]. Koreatimes.co.kr, 9 August 2010. Retrieved 26 July 2013.</ref> In May 2011, Indonesia signed a US$400 million contract for 16 T-50s, designated T-50i.<ref name="KAI T-50 Indonesia">{{cite press release |url=https://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=3&gubun=v&seq=23695&bbs=10 |title=Export T-50 advanced trainer to Indonesia |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries, LTD. (KAI) |date=25 May 2011 |access-date=20 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160126035049/https://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=3&gubun=v&seq=23695&bbs=10 |archive-date=26 January 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> They feature weapons pylons and gun modules, enabling light attack capabilities.<ref name="avw">[http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/asd_05_27_2011_p03-02-328398.xml "Indonesia Orders 16 T-50s From Korea"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203204641/http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=%2Farticle-xml%2Fasd_05_27_2011_p03-02-328398.xml |date=3 December 2013}}. Aviation Week</ref><ref name="DefNew_Indonesia_Buys_16">Sung-Ki, Jung. [https://archive.today/20130121094622/http://www.defensenews.com/story.php?i=6633066&c=ASI&s=AIR "Indonesia To Buy 16 S. Korean T-50 Trainers"]. Defense News, 26 May 2011. Retrieved 26 July 2013.</ref> Deliveries began in September 2013;<ref name="FI_First_T-50_delivery">Waldron. [http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indonesia-receives-first-pair-of-t-50i-advanced-jet-trainers-390512/ "Indonesia receives first pair of T-50i advanced jet trainers"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203005932/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/indonesia-receives-first-pair-of-t-50i-advanced-jet-trainers-390512/ |date=3 December 2013}}. Flight International, 13 September 2013. Retrieved 30 September 2013.</ref> the last aircraft were delivered in January 2014.<ref name="T-50i Indonesia">{{cite web |url=http://www.tni.mil.id/view-58177-t-50i-golden-eagle-siap-kawal-nkri.html |title=T-50i Golden Eagle Siap Kawal NKRI |first=Puspen |last=Mabes |website=TNI |access-date=27 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130090546/http://www.tni.mil.id/view-58177-t-50i-golden-eagle-siap-kawal-nkri.html |archive-date=30 January 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref>

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.<ref>{{cite web |date=21 July 2021 |title=Indonesia orders 6 more T-50i Golden Eagle lead-in fighter trainers from South Korea |url=https://www.asiapacificdefensejournal.com/2021/07/indonesia-orders-6-more-t-50i-golden.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230822111202/https://www.asiapacificdefensejournal.com/2021/07/indonesia-orders-6-more-t-50i-golden.html |archive-date=22 August 2023 |access-date=12 December 2021 |website=Asia Pacific Defense Journal}}</ref> Two aircraft was scheduled to be delivered in November 2025, with the rest to follow.<ref>{{cite web|author1=Walda M |author2=Rahmad Nasution |editor=Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono |url=https://en.antaranews.com/news/383477/indonesia-to-receive-new-t-50i-jets-from-s-korea-in-november |title=Indonesia to receive new T-50i jets from S Korea in November |website=Antara News |date=2025-10-01 |access-date=2025-10-02}}</ref> The two aircraft was delivered by air cargo to Juanda International Airport, Surabaya in February 2026 and transported to the Iswahyudi Air Force Base using trucks.<ref name="indodelivery1">{{cite web|author1=Walda M |author2=Rahmad Nasution |editor=Primayanti |url=https://en.antaranews.com/amp/news/404522/indonesia-receives-two-t-50i-jets-from-south-korea |title=Indonesia receives two T-50i jets from South Korea |website=Antara News |date=14 February 2026 |access-date=14 February 2026}}</ref> ===Iraq=== Iraq first publicly expressed official interest in the T-50 trainers during the Korea–Iraq summit in Seoul on 24 February 2009.<ref>[http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/03/205_41302.html "Iraq Asks for Korea's T-50 Trainer Jets"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090317052043/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2009/03/205_41302.html |date=17 March 2009}}. ''Korea Times'', 15 March 2009. Retrieved 30 March 2009.</ref> In April 2010, Iraq reopened the jet lead-in fighter-trainer competition for 24 aircraft, in which TA-50 competed.<ref name=DID_Iraq_FA-50>[http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/TA-50-Golden-Eagles-for-Iraq-05255/ "Iraq's New Trainer-Fighters: FA-50 Bounces the Czech"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100503130511/http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/TA-50-Golden-Eagles-for-Iraq-05255/ |date=3 May 2010}}. Defense Industry Daily, 12 December 2013.</ref> 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.<ref name="english.yonhapnews.co.kr">[http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2013/12/12/63/0301000000AEN20131212005100315F.html "S. Korea to export 24 FA-50 light attackers to Iraq"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151009131452/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/national/2013/12/12/63/0301000000AEN20131212005100315F.html |date=9 October 2015}}</ref><ref name="KAI T-50 Iraq">{{cite press release |url=https://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&gubun=v&seq=25666&bbs=10 |title=KAI has signed the contract with Iraq for exportin |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries, LTD. (KAI) |date=12 December 2013 |access-date=20 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407150357/http://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&gubun=v&seq=25666&bbs=10 |archive-date=7 April 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> The first batch of aircraft was delivered in March 2017 while the second batch arrived in May 2018.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/iraqi-air-force-orders-24-kai-t-50s-394051/ Iraqi air force orders 24 KAI T-50s] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150915095215/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/iraqi-air-force-orders-24-kai-t-50s-394051/ |date=15 September 2015}} – Flightglobal.com, 12 December 2013</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=T-50 Golden Eagles find new roost |url=https://www.timesaerospace.aero/features/defence/t-50-golden-eagles-find-new-roost#:~:text=The%20Iraqi%20T-50IQ%20was,air-to-ground%20weapons. |access-date=14 October 2022 |website=timesaerospace.aero}}</ref> However, none were flown until June 2022, following the negotiation of a maintenance, logistics and training contract with KAI in November 2021.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Iddon |first1=Paul |title=Korean T-50 Jets Could Enhance Iraq's Air Campaign Against ISIS |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/pauliddon/2022/06/27/how-its-korean-t-50-jets-could-enhance-iraqs-air-campaign-against-isis/?sh=54a9c0f15e33 |work=Forbes |access-date=31 October 2022 |language=en |date=27 June 2022}}</ref>

===Philippines=== [[File:FA-50 Golden Eagle (Philippine Air Force, February 19, 2016).jpg|thumb|Philippine Air Force FA-50PHs escorting the plane carrying President Aquino]] [[File:U.S. Air Force and The Phillipine Air Force conduct bilateral training - 17 of 19.jpg|thumb|Two FA-50PHs conduct joint combined exchange training above Basa Air Force Base]] [[File:Flight Demonstration of the FA-50PH Fighter Jet and ride of Philippines President Bongbong Marcos in Clark Airbase - 7 March 2023.webm|thumb|Philippine Air Force FA-50PH carrying President Marcos Jr.]]

The Philippine Air Force (PAF) chose 12 TA-50s to fulfill its requirement for a light attack and lead-in fighter trainer aircraft. The Department of National Defense (DND) announced the selection of the type in August 2012.<ref name=JDW_TA-50_Phill_select>Cohen, Michael. [https://janes.ihs.com/CustomPages/Janes/DisplayPage.aspx?DocType=News&ItemId=+++1516137&Pubabbrev=JDW "Philippines confirms T/A-50 purchase"]{{Subscription required}}. Jane's Defence Weekly, Vol 49, Issue 32, 8 August 2012.</ref> Funding for 12 aircraft was approved by Congress in September 2012.<ref>[https://janes.ihs.com/CustomPages/Janes/DisplayPage.aspx?DocType=News&ItemId=+++1522623&Pubabbrev=JDW "Philippines defence budget gets green light"]{{Subscription required}}. Jane's Defence Weekly, 21 September 2012.</ref>

In January 2013, state media reported that the FA-50 variant, not the TA-50 as previously reported, was selected for procurement.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/30/13/ph-buy-12-s-korean-fighter-jets |title= PH to buy 12 S. Korean fighter jets |agency= Agence France-Presse |via= ABS-CBN News |date= 30 January 2013 |access-date= 30 January 2013 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130131130403/http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/01/30/13/ph-buy-12-s-korean-fighter-jets |archive-date= 31 January 2013 |url-status= live}}</ref> In October 2013, President Benigno Aquino III said that the DND was close to finalizing the FA-50 deal.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://globalnation.inquirer.net/88187/aquino-ph-close-to-finalizing-deal-on-purchase-of-korean-fighter-jets |title=PH buying SK fighter jets |first=Marlon |last=Ramos |access-date=19 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131018070541/http://globalnation.inquirer.net/88187/aquino-ph-close-to-finalizing-deal-on-purchase-of-korean-fighter-jets |archive-date=18 October 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 19 October 2013, President Aquino and President Park Geun-hye of South Korea signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with provisions for acquisitions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/noy-park-ink-pact-for-p19-b-fighter-jet-acqisition-contract |title=Noy, Park ink pact for P19-B fighter jet {{as written|acqi|sition [sic]}} contract |work=Daily Tribune |access-date=20 October 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131021114235/http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/noy-park-ink-pact-for-p19-b-fighter-jet-acqisition-contract |archive-date=21 October 2013}}</ref> On 13 February 2014, President Aquino approved the payment scheme and budget of P18.9 billion ($415.7 million) for 12 lead-in fighter trainers.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/02/21/1292810/palace-oks-payment-scheme-s.-korean-fighter-jets |title=Palace OKs payment scheme for S. Korean fighter jets |work=The Philippine STAR |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301160329/http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2014/02/21/1292810/palace-oks-payment-scheme-s.-korean-fighter-jets |archive-date=1 March 2014}}</ref> On 28 March 2014, the DND signed a contract for 12 FA-50 fighters worth P18.9 billion (US$421.12 million).<ref name="KAI FA-50 Philippines">{{cite press release |url=https://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&gubun=v&seq=25777&bbs=10 |title=KAI won a contract to export 12 FA-50s to the Phil |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries, LTD. (KAI) |date=28 March 2014 |access-date=20 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208081200/https://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&gubun=v&seq=25777&bbs=10 |archive-date=8 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arirang.co.kr/News/News_View.asp?nseq=159955 |title=Korean government to sell 12 FA-50 fighter jets to Philippines |work= Arirang International Broadcasting |access-date=28 March 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208054333/http://www.arirang.co.kr/News/News_View.asp?nseq=159955 |archive-date=8 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Deliveries began in November 2015,<ref name=Janes_two_FA-50s>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/56366/philippines-receives-first-two-fa-50s |title=Philippines receives first two FA-50s |publisher=IHS Jane's 360 |date=2 December 2015 |access-date=30 July 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161007001325/http://www.janes.com/article/56366/philippines-receives-first-two-fa-50s |archive-date=7 October 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> all 12 aircraft were delivered by 31 May 2017.<ref name="JanesPhilippinesComplete">{{cite web |last1=Dominguez |first1=Gabriel |title=South Korea's KAI completes deliveries of FA-50PH aircraft to Philippines |url=http://www.janes.com/article/71047 |work=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=2 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170602223643/http://www.janes.com/article/71047/south-korea-s-kai-completes-deliveries-of-fa-50ph-aircraft-to-philippines |archive-date=2 June 2017 |date=1 June 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="UpdatePHComplete">{{cite web |last1=Santos |first1=Ruben |title=South Korea completes delivery of FA-50PH squadron |url=https://www.update.ph/2017/05/south-korea-completes-delivery-of-fa-50ph-squadron/17851 |work=Update Philippines |access-date=2 June 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170602223829/https://www.update.ph/2017/05/south-korea-completes-delivery-of-fa-50ph-squadron/17851 |archive-date=2 June 2017 |date=31 May 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Plans were laid for 3 or 4 FA-50s to be fitted with capability for beyond visual range (BVR) intercept.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://rentaka.weebly.com/blog/philippines-eyes-bvr-upgrades-for-fa-50 |title=philippines eyes bvr upgrades for fa-50 |access-date=2 January 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402112031/http://rentaka.weebly.com/blog/philippines-eyes-bvr-upgrades-for-fa-50 |archive-date=2 April 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> In March 2015, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that the Philippines plans to order additional FA-50s,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://books.sipri.org/files/FS/SIPRIFS1503.pdf |title=Trends In International Arms Transfers, 2014 |access-date=4 August 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160705053333/http://books.sipri.org/files/FS/SIPRIFS1503.pdf |archive-date=5 July 2016 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/03/20/1435559/phl-buy-24-more-combat-aircraft-south-korea |title=Phl to buy 24 more combat aircraft from South Korea |work=The Philippine STAR |access-date=21 March 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150322184111/http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2015/03/20/1435559/phl-buy-24-more-combat-aircraft-south-korea |archive-date=22 March 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> which is supported by the PAF Flight Plan 2028 that lists another 12 FA-50s planned for the future.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |date=14 August 2022 |title=Additional FA-50PH for the Philippine Air Force? |url=https://www.pitzdefanalysis.net/2022/08/additional-fa-50ph-for-paf.html?m=1 |access-date=30 April 2023 |work=Pitz Defense Analysis}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Nepomuceno |first=Priam |date=14 June 2022 |title=Air Force eyes buying more FA-50 aircraft |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1176606 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220614110759/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1176606 |archive-date=14 June 2022 |access-date=30 April 2023 |work=Philippine News Agency}}</ref>

On 26 January 2017, two PAF FA-50PHs conducted a nighttime attack on terrorist hideouts in Butig, Lanao del Sur in Mindanao, the first combat sorties flown by these aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=aEUKMolndJk |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/aEUKMolndJk |archive-date=21 December 2021 |url-status=live|title=TV Patrol: DND, kinumpirma ang ugnayan ng ISIS at teroristang grupo sa Pilipinas |date=26 January 2017 |publisher= ABS-CBN News |via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>[http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/866108/bombs-drop-on-terror-groups-lair "Bombs drop on terror groups' lair"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170127171840/http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/866108/bombs-drop-on-terror-groups-lair |date=27 January 2017}}</ref> In June 2017, FA-50s were deployed to conduct airstrikes against Maute terrorists entrenched in the city of Marawi starting in May 2017.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/06/03/1706208/military-resumes-airstrikes-marawi |title=Military resumes airstrikes in Marawi |work=The Philippine Star |access-date=9 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170606042903/http://www.philstar.com/headlines/2017/06/03/1706208/military-resumes-airstrikes-marawi |archive-date=6 June 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/06/09/17/new-air-strike-vs-maute-rebels-as-officials-vow-to-end-marawi-siege |title=New air strike vs Maute rebels as officials vow to end Marawi siege |work=ABS-CBN News|date=9 June 2017 |access-date=9 June 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170609143451/http://news.abs-cbn.com/news/06/09/17/new-air-strike-vs-maute-rebels-as-officials-vow-to-end-marawi-siege |archive-date=9 June 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> On 12 July 2017, an FA-50 was involved in a friendly fire incident during the battle of Marawi, when a bomb landed approximately 250 meters off target, killing two Philippine soldiers and injuring 11 more.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/913385/it-was-fa-50-jet-in-2nd-friendly-fire-incident-in-marawi-military-source |title=It was FA-50 jet in 2nd friendly fire incident in Marawi – military source |first=Nikko |last=Dizon |date=12 July 2017 |access-date=13 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170712221016/http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/913385/it-was-fa-50-jet-in-2nd-friendly-fire-incident-in-marawi-military-source |archive-date=12 July 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> An investigation cleared the aircrew and aircraft of fault and the type was returned to active service in August.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.update.ph/2017/08/fa-50s-now-fighting-again-in-marawi-city/19680 |title=FA-50s now fighting again in Marawi City – Update Philippines |date=3 August 2017 |access-date=5 August 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170805101828/https://www.update.ph/2017/08/fa-50s-now-fighting-again-in-marawi-city/19680 |archive-date=5 August 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>

In June 2018, the PAF was reportedly reviewing the possible acquisition of 12 more aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/80721/philippines-seeks-additional-fa-50-light-attack-aircraft-from-south-korea |title= Philippines seeks additional FA-50 light attack aircraft from South Korea |access-date=8 June 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180610230231/http://www.janes.com/article/80721/philippines-seeks-additional-fa-50-light-attack-aircraft-from-south-korea |archive-date=10 June 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> PAF Chief Lt. Gen Connor Anthony Canlas Sr. reiterated this possibility in a media interview in June 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nepomuceno |first=Priam |date=14 June 2022 |title=Air Force eyes buying more FA-50 aircraft |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1176606 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220614110759/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1176606 |archive-date=14 June 2022 |access-date=22 August 2023 |work=Philippine News Agency}}</ref><ref name=":0" />

On 2 February 2019, two PAF FA-50s dropped eight 250-pound bombs on a base of the ISIS-linked Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) in response to a bomb attack on the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral in Barangay Walled City, Jolo, Sulu.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://manilastandard.net/news/top-stories/286946/bombs-rain-on-asg-lair-8-die.html |title=Bombs rain on ASG lair; 8 die |newspaper=Manila Standard}}</ref>

On 25 June 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.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.mintfo.com/news/air-force-holds-missile-live-fire-exercise/19690/|title=Philippine Air Force holds missile live fire exercise|access-date=31 January 2021|archive-date=6 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210206184547/https://www.mintfo.com/news/air-force-holds-missile-live-fire-exercise/19690/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

On 25 December 2020, one day before the 52nd anniversary of the Communist Party of the Philippines, a PAF FA-50 dropped six bombs, including a GPS-guided bomb, that resulted in the deaths of three New People's Army rebels at their base camp in Daguma Mountain Range in Sultan Kudarat province.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.mindanews.com/top-stories/2020/12/bodies-of-3-npa-guerrillas-killed-in-aerial-bombing-in-sultan-kudarat-recovered1/|title=Bodies of 3 NPA guerrillas killed in aerial bombing in Sultan Kudarat recovered |website=mindanews.com |date=26 December 2020 }}</ref>

On 26 April 2023, as part of the 2023 Balikatan 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.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nepomuceno |first=Priam |date=26 April 2023 |title=Balikatan live-fire drill participants sink retired WWII corvette |url=https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1200206 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230605065654/https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1200206 |archive-date=5 June 2023 |access-date=5 June 2023 |work=Philippine News Agency}}</ref>

On 4 March 2025, a PAF FA-50 and its two pilots had lost contact and went missing during a night tactical mission against communist insurgency in the southern Philippines.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Gomez |first1=Jim |date=4 March 2025 |title=A Philippine fighter jet and 2 pilots are missing on a mission against insurgents |url=https://apnews.com/article/philippines-missing-fighter-jet-fa50-875e3c91559e561163c8c74f68b59df0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250305010021/https://apnews.com/article/philippines-missing-fighter-jet-fa50-875e3c91559e561163c8c74f68b59df0 |archive-date=5 March 2025 |access-date=5 March 2025 |publisher=AP |work=AP News}}</ref> The plane was found the day after, which crashed on Mount Kalatungan, in the southern province of Bukidnon. Both pilots were found dead.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rita |first1=Joviland |date=5 March 2025 |title=Missing FA-50 jet fighter found in Bukidnon, 2 pilots dead —PAF |url=https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/938229/missing-fa-50-jet-fighter-found-2-pilots-dead/story/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250305073633/https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/topstories/nation/938229/missing-fa-50-jet-fighter-found-2-pilots-dead/story/ |archive-date=5 March 2025 |access-date=5 March 2025 |agency=GMA Integrated News}}</ref>

On 25 March 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.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.donga.com/news//article/all/20250325/131278712/2|title=로메오 브라우너 필리핀군 합참의장, 전쟁기념사업회 방문|publisher=The Dong-A Ilbo|date=25 March 2025|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20250325180032/https://www.donga.com/news//article/all/20250325/131278712/2|archivedate=25 March 2025|accessdate=25 March 2025|author1=Park Tae-geun}}</ref>

On 8 April 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.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Dava |first1=Bianca |date=8 April 2025 |title=Mechanical error ruled out in fatal FA-50 crash in Bukidnon |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/regions/2025/4/8/mechanical-error-ruled-out-in-fatal-fa-50-crash-in-bukidnon-1536 |agency=ABS-CBN News}}{{dead link|date=August 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

===Thailand=== In September 2015, the Thai government chose the T-50TH for its air force over the Chinese Hongdu L-15 to replace its aging L-39 Albatros trainers. The four T-50THs were scheduled to be delivered by March 2018.<ref>{{cite web|date=17 September 2015|title=Gov't to export four T-50 training jets to Thailand|url=http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3009348|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160804003221/http://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3009348|archive-date=4 August 2016|access-date=27 June 2016|work=Korea JoongAng Daily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|date=30 July 2017|title=KAI added 8 T-50s to Thailand|url=http://www.asiatoday.co.kr/view.php?key=20170730010014765|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170730145339/http://www.asiatoday.co.kr/view.php?key=20170730010014765|archive-date=30 July 2017|access-date=30 July 2017|work=The Seoul Economic Daily}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2015/09/116_187047.html |title=KAI will export T-50s to Thailand |work=The Korea Times|date=17 September 2015 |access-date=30 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208100432/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2015/09/116_187047.html |archive-date=8 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2017, Thailand's government approved the procurement of eight more aircraft<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.defensenews.com/articles/thailand-to-buy-additional-kai-t-50s-from-south-korea-for-258m |title=KAI scores additional Thai T-50 orders for $258M |access-date=11 July 2017 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20170714071412/http://www.defensenews.com/articles/thailand-to-buy-additional-kai-t-50s-from-south-korea-for-258m |archive-date=14 July 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=FG_Thai_8_more>Waldron, Greg. [https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thailand-orders-eight-additional-t-50th-trainers-439236/ "Thailand orders eight additional T-50TH trainers"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170712045231/https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/thailand-orders-eight-additional-t-50th-trainers-439236/ |date=12 July 2017}}. Flight Global, 12 July 2017.</ref> Deliveries began in January 2018.<ref>{{cite news |title=Delivery of T-50TH trainer jets to Thailand begins |url=http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/business/2018/01/08/0502000000AEN20180108006500320.html |agency=Yonhap News Agency |access-date=11 January 2018 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20180111155914/http://english.yonhapnews.co.kr/business/2018/01/08/0502000000AEN20180108006500320.html |archive-date=11 January 2018 |location=Seoul |date=8 January 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The Royal Thai Air Force's (RTA) 2024 White Paper outlines a plan to acquire two more T-50TH aircraft in the fiscal year 2025. This acquisition will bring the total number of aircraft in squadron 401 to 16.<ref>{{cite news |title=Korean KAI Proposes FA-50 to the Royal Thai Air Force|url=https://turdef.com/article/korean-kai-proposes-fa-50-to-the-royal-thai-air-force |agency=TurDef |access-date=5 April 2024}}</ref>

On 24 December 2025, during 2025 Cambodia–Thailand conflict, the RTA deployed its T-50TH in a live combat mission for the first time, conducting a deep-strike mission over Battambang province and dropping four bombs on a target in Banan District. The T-50TH operated alongside F-16s and Gripens as part of coordinated air operations.<ref>{{Cite news |last= Chheng |first= Niem |date=Dec 24, 2025 |title= Thai air force debuts T-50TH Golden Eagle aircraft with deep strike on Battambang province |url= https://www.phnompenhpost.com/national/thai-air-force-debuts-t-50th-golden-eagle-aircraft-with-deep-strike-on-battambang-province |work=The Phnom Penh Post}}</ref>

===Poland=== On 22 July 2022, Poland's Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak said in a media interview that the country would buy 48 FA-50 fighters;<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/poland-buy-jets-tanks-howitzers-south-korea-says-minister-2022-07-22/ |title=Poland to buy jets, tanks and howitzers from South Korea, says minister |work=Reuters |date=22 July 2022 }}</ref> KAI officially signed the deal with the Polish government for 12 FA-50GF (Gap Filler) Block 10 and 36 FA-50PL (Polish Version) Block 20 shortly after (28 July).<ref>{{cite news|url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20220728003151325?section=national/defense|title=(LEAD) KAI signs US$3 bln deal with Poland to export 48 FA-50s|publisher=Yonhap News Agency|date=28 July 2022}}</ref> with deliveries to start in 2023<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://defence24.com/defence-policy/poland-to-buy-1000-mbts-minister-blaszczak-also-outlines-a-plan-to-procure-extra-f-35s-or-f-15s-interview|title=Poland to Buy 1,000 MBTs. Minister Błaszczak Also Outlines a Plan To Procure Extra F-35s or F-15s [INTERVIEW]|website=defence24.com|date=27 July 2022 |accessdate=4 April 2023}}</ref> Blaszczak said KAI's ability to deliver the aircraft quickly was the decisive selection factor. As a result of the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Polish Air Force desired urgently to replace their remaining MiG-29 fighter and Su-22 attack aircraft and the U.S. was unable to supply additional F-16s in such a short timeframe. KAI was also expected to help establish a servicing center for the aircraft in Poland in cooperation with Polish defense industries by 2026.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Donald |first=David |date=27 July 2022 |title=Poland Turns To South Korea's FA-50 Fighter/Attack Jet {{!}} AIN |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2022-07-27/poland-turns-south-koreas-fa-50-fighter-attack-jet |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20220808015920/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2022-07-27/poland-turns-south-koreas-fa-50-fighter-attack-jet |archive-date=8 August 2022 |access-date=22 August 2023 |work=Aviation International News}}</ref>

As is common practice in military aviation procurement, the contract for the FA-50PL,<ref name=FA50PL/> a variant designed to meet specific Polish requirements, was signed while the version was still in development (a similar situation occurred with Poland's order for the F-35A Block 4 TR-3, which then faced developmental delays). Many of these requirements, such as the integration of Sniper targeting pods, GBU-12 bombs, and KGGB guided bombs, as well as an in-flight refueling probe, had already been tested and integrated on the FA-50 platform. Other planned integrations for the FA-50PL, such as the Phantom Strike AESA radar and Link-16 datalink, were considered challenging primarily from a timing perspective, but not technically unfeasible.<ref name=FA50PL_specs>{{cite web |url=https://x.com/TheFuriousFafik/status/1954635869023055891 |title="Świadoma tego wszystkiego polska strona wciąż parła do stworzenia lepszej wersji FA-50 PL, wpisując na listę życzeń trudne do zrealizowania wymogi." |work=The Furious Fafik |date=10 August 2025 }}</ref>

The FA-50PL was intended to be integrated with modern air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9X Sidewinder and the AIM-120 AMRAAM. The contract covered the cost of most integrations for the FA-50PL variant. However, the integration of the AIM-120 AMRAAM in particular would require an additional agreement. Poland conducted talks with manufacturers of alternative missiles, as a "Plan B". For training purposes, Poland was to lease AIM-9P4 missiles from South Korea, allowing Poland to use the missiles for training and then return them and avoiding future disposal costs once the more advanced AIM-9X was integrated. Separately, Poland purchased 24 upgraded AIM-9L/I-1 missiles, which are modernized versions of the AIM-9L.<ref name=FA50PL_specs/>

The FA-50 is a light combat aircraft with a size similar to the F-16, though slightly shorter, and with more limited combat capabilities.<ref name=FA50PL>{{cite web |url=https://x.com/TheFuriousFafik/status/1954633907703570704 |title=Korzystając z tego, że już utopiłem 9,90 zł w subskrypcję Onet Premium |work=The Furious Fafik |date=10 August 2025 }}</ref> The FA-50's role in training can be compared to that of the M-346 AJT: while the M-346 can simulate a wider range of virtual weaponry, the M-346 is more expensive to operate than the FA-50; unlike the base model of the M-346, the FA-50 can also be used for training with real targets and has inherent combat capabilities.<ref name=FA50PL_M346>{{cite web |url=https://x.com/TheFuriousFafik/status/1954639386764599312 |title=Do szkolenia używamy nie tylko znacznie tańszych, ale też o wiele lepszych do tego celu samolotów M-346 AJT – wyjaśnia doświadczony pilot. |work=The Furious Fafik |date=10 August 2025 }}</ref>

===Malaysia=== On 24 February 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 the Royal Malaysian Air Force's light combat aircraft (LCA) and fighter in-lead trainer (FLIT) tender,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/kai-signs-a-deal-with-malaysia-for-fa-50-aircraft|title=KAI signs a deal with Malaysia for FA-50 aircraft|first=Akhil|last=Kadidal|date=24 February 2023|website=www.janes.com|accessdate=4 April 2023}}</ref> which is intended to replace the Aermacchi MB-339 and Hawk Mk 108/208 currently in service.<ref name="Defencesecurityasia_RMAF">{{cite news |date=24 February 2023 |title=TUDM chooses FA-50 |url=https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/tudm-chooses-fa-50 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230822112010/https://www.scramble.nl/military-news/tudm-chooses-fa-50 |archive-date=22 August 2023 |access-date=5 March 2023 |publisher=Scramble.nl}}</ref> The FA-50 was in competition with the Indian HAL Tejas, Italian Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master, Turkish TAI Hürjet, Chinese Hongdu L-15, Russian Mikoyan MiG-35, and Sino-Pakistani JF-17 Thunder.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waldron |first=Greg |date=24 February 2023 |title=FA-50 wins Malaysia's light combat aircraft competition |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/fa-50-wins-malaysias-light-combat-aircraft-competition/152203.article |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20230224090137/https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/fa-50-wins-malaysias-light-combat-aircraft-competition/152203.article |archive-date=24 February 2023 |accessdate=4 April 2023 |website=Flight Global}}</ref> On 23 May 2023, Malaysia signed a $920 million final contract with KAI to purchase 18 FA-50 Block 20s.<ref name="Aviacionline 2023-05-23">{{cite web|url=https://www.aviacionline.com/2023/05/malaysia-signed-purchase-contract-for-18-korean-fa-50-light-fighters/|title=Malaysia signed purchase contract for 18 Korean FA-50 light fighters|publisher=Aviacionline|date=23 May 2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526121558/https://www.aviacionline.com/2023/05/malaysia-signed-purchase-contract-for-18-korean-fa-50-light-fighters/|archivedate=26 May 2023|accessdate=26 May 2023| first=Gastón |last=Dubois}}</ref> KAI officials said Malaysia is willing to order 18 more FA-50s later.<ref name="Janes 2023-05-23">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/lima-2023-kai-says-malaysia-keen-to-order-18-additional-fa-50s|title=LIMA 2023: KAI says Malaysia keen to order 18 additional FA-50s|publisher=Janes Information Services|date=23 May 2023|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526121742/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/lima-2023-kai-says-malaysia-keen-to-order-18-additional-fa-50s|archivedate=26 May 2023|accessdate=26 May 2023|author=Akhil Kadidal}}</ref>

==Variants== ===Current variants=== thumb|TA-50 group display at ROKAF air base

* '''T-50 Golden Eagle:''' Advanced trainer version.<ref name=KAI_T-50_family>{{cite web |url=http://www.koreaaero.com/english/product/fixedwing_t-50.asp |title=T-50 Family |website=KAI |access-date=11 July 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120719220955/http://www.koreaaero.com/english/product/fixedwing_t-50.asp |archive-date=19 July 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> ** '''T-50B:''' Aerobatic-specialized T-50 version.<ref name=KAI_T-50_family/> Used by ROKAF's aerobatic display team, the Black Eagles. **'''TA-50:''' Lead-in fighter trainer and light attack version.<ref name=KAI_T-50_family/> **'''TF-50:''' A variant of the T-50 trainer platform that is uniquely configured as an advanced trainer and light attack fighter. It has modern capabilities to meet multiple missions and get new pilots flying operational sorties faster. Lockheed Martin is offering the TF-50 as an effective, low-risk, scalable solution that is ready to meet multiple advanced training needs around the world.<ref name="LM_TF50">{{cite web |url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/tf-50.html |title=TF-50, The Future of Fighter Training|website=Lockheed Martin |access-date=31 July 2025}}</ref> * '''FA-50 Fighting Eagle:''' Light fighter/attack version, originally named A-50. A prototype from a converted T-50 first flew in 2011.<ref name=KAI_T-50_family/><ref name="Code One Magazine">[http://www.codeonemagazine.com/t50_article.html?item_id=170 "Lockheed Martin Publication"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112060536/http://www.codeonemagazine.com/t50_article.html?item_id=170 |date=12 January 2016}}. ''Code One Magazine''</ref><ref name="KAI FA-50PH Release">[http://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&seq=26324&bbs=10 "KAI makes first delivery of its indigenous FA-50PH"] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151223190430/http://www.koreaaero.com/english/pr_center/cpr_view.asp?pg=1&seq=26324&bbs=10 |date=23 December 2015}}. KAI Press Release, 27 November 2015.</ref> ** '''FA-50 Block 10:''' Software upgrades to enable integration of Lockheed Martin AN/AAQ-33 Sniper targeting pod.<ref name=KAI_Block_Variants1>{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2019-01-22/kai-developing-smarter-fa-50-golden-eagle |title=KAI Developing Smarter FA-50 Golden Eagle |website=Ainonline |access-date=29 October 2022}}</ref> *** '''FA-50 Block 40:''' Baseline FA-50 configuration.<ref name=FA50_Blocks>{{cite web |url=https://x.com/FMangosingINQ/status/1671418551251668993 |title=Korea Aerospace Industries is proposing additional FA-50s, upgrade of the current FA-50s and KF-21 Boramae for the PAF. KAI supplied the PAF's FA-50 light fighters |website=@FMangosingINQ |access-date=21 June 2023}}</ref> *** '''FA-50 Block 50:''' Equipped with a Link 16 data link, fire detection system, radar warning receiver (RWR), countermeasures dispensing system, Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod, and compatibility with laser-guided bombs such as GBU-12 Paveway II, JDAM.<ref name=FA50_Blocks/><ref name=FA50PH>{{cite web |url=https://www.facebook.com/MaxDefense/posts/the-department-of-national-defense-confirmed-that-the-fa-50-fighting-eagle-varia/1144253547741499/ |title=The Department of National Defense confirmed that the FA-50 Fighting Eagle variant that they acquired earlier this month is the Block 70. |website=MaxDefense Philippines |access-date=13 June 2025}}</ref> ** '''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,<ref name=KAI_Block_Variants2>{{cite web |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/kai-to-modify-fa-50-with-cobham-refuelling-probe/141412.article |title=KAI to modify FA-50 with Cobham refuelling probe |website=FlightGlobal |access-date=29 October 2022}}</ref> {{convert|300|USgal|l|adj=on|order=flip}} 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.<ref name=KAI_Block_Variants>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/adex-2021-kai-reveals-more-details-about-fa-50-upgrade-plans |title=ADEX 2021: KAI reveals more details about FA-50 upgrade plans |website=Janes |date=19 October 2021 |access-date=29 October 2022}}</ref> While these capabilities have been outlined in development plans, the final implementation may differ based on political and logistical considerations for each customer nation.{{citation needed|date=June 2025}} ***'''FA-50 Block 60:''' Enhances mission endurance and range with 300-gallon conformal fuel tanks (CFT) and air-to-air refueling (AAR) capability.<ref name=FA50_Blocks/><ref name=FA50PH/> ***'''FA-50 Block 70:''' Upgraded for advanced air-to-air combat with dual AESA surveillance and fire control radar, compatibility with AIM-9X high off-boresight missiles supported by a Head-Mounted Display (HMD), and AIM-120 AMRAAM for beyond-visual-range (BVR) engagements.<ref name=FA50_Blocks/><ref name=FA50PH/> * '''F-50:''' The F-50 is a proposed single–seat multirole fighter variant of FA-50. In 2016 it was cancelled in favor of the KAI KF-21.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kjclub.com/kr/exchange/photo/read.php?uid=16553&fid=16553&thread=1000000&idx=1&page=1&tname=exc_board_53&number=12391 |title=KJCLUB |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423155712/http://www.kjclub.com/kr/exchange/photo/read.php?uid=16553&fid=16553&thread=1000000&idx=1&page=1&tname=exc_board_53&number=12391 |archive-date=23 April 2016}}</ref> In 2024, KAI announced that it had resumed working on the project again.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/defence/kai-to-invest-in-single-seat-fa-50-advanced-air-mobility/157400.article | title=KAI to invest in single-seat FA-50, advanced air mobility }}</ref> KAI is developing an F-50 upgrade kit, a single-seat conversion for the FA-50, at the request of an unnamed nation. This kit involves removing the rear pilot's seat and cockpit, creating space for an additional fuel tank and new electronics. This modification is expected to significantly increase the aircraft's operational range by 20% to 30% and boost its weapon payload capacity, making it a more capable and formidable platform. KAI plans to have a prototype ready by 2026, with the final version available by 2028.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://x.com/MonteroMax/status/1960290124652322863 | title=KFNPlus, affiliated to ROK's MoD, released 2 part video discussing the 🇵🇭Philippine Air Force's FA-50PH. }}</ref>

===Country-specific variants=== [[File:T-50 TNI Angkatan Udara. Skadron Udara 15.jpg|thumb|Indonesian Air Force T-50i of the 15th Air Squadron carrying AIM-9P]]

;{{IDN}} * '''T-50i:''' Version of the T-50 for Indonesian Air Force<ref name="KAI T-50 Indonesia"/><ref name=FI_First_T-50_delivery/> ;{{IRQ}} * '''T-50IQ:''' Version of the FA-50 for Iraqi Air Force<ref name="KAI T-50 Iraq"/><ref name="english.yonhapnews.co.kr"/> The aircraft can operate AIM-9 Sidewinder and JDAM.<ref>{{cite web | date=10 November 2021 |title=Iraq orders T-50IQ repair, maintenance and training services |url=https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/iraq-orders-t-50iq-repair-maintenance-and-training/ |access-date=10 November 2021 |website=Shephard}}</ref> ;{{MAS}} * '''FA-50M:''' Version of the FA-50 Block 70 for the Royal Malaysian Air Force<ref>{{cite web |url=https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/2023/05/25/business/industry/KAI-FA50-KF21/20230525181015796.html |title=KAI finalizes fighter jet deal with Malaysia |website=Korea JoongAng Daily |date=25 May 2023 |access-date=25 May 2023}}</ref> ;{{PHL}} * '''FA-50PH:''' Version of the FA-50 Block 50 for the Philippine Air Force<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.phdefresource.com/2020/12/fighter-surface-attack-aircraft-lead-in.html?m=1 |title=Fighter / Surface Attack Aircraft / Lead-in Fighter Trainer Acquisition Project (Phase 1) of the Philippine Air Force |website=Philippine Defense Resource |date=26 December 2020 |access-date=27 December 2020}}</ref> ;{{POL}} * '''FA-50GF:''' Version of the FA-50 Block 50 for the Polish Air Force<ref name="ainpol">{{cite news |date=11 March 2023 |title=KAI Unveils First 'Gap-Filler' Light Fighter for Poland |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2023-03-11/kai-unveils-first-gap-filler-light-fighter-poland |access-date=7 June 2023 |website=AINonline}}</ref> * '''FA-50PL:''' Version of the FA-50 Block 70 for the Polish Air Force<ref name="ainpol"/> ;{{THA}} * '''T-50TH:''' Version of the T-50 for the Royal Thai Air Force.<ref name="The Korea Times">{{cite web |url=https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2015/09/116_187047.html |title=KAI will export T-50s to Thailand |date=17 September 2015 |access-date=10 November 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919194021/http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/nation/2015/09/116_187047.html |archive-date=19 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> with some FA-50/TA-50 equipment and capability such as EL/M-2032 radar, MIL-STD-1760 interface, 20 mm gun, radar warning receiver, and countermeasures dispenser system. Compatible with laser-guided bombs, AIM-9 Sidewinder and AGM-65 Maverick, integration for beyond-visual-range missile<ref>{{cite web |url=https://thaiarmedforce.com/2021/07/14/rtaf-finalize-deal-for-last-2-t-50th/ |title=กองทัพอากาศสรุปการจัดหา T-50TH เพิ่ม 2 ลำ ล็อตสุดท้าย |date=14 July 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.israeldefense.co.il/en/node/30326 |title= Thailand to Buy T-50TH Aircraft with ELTA Radars |date=13 July 2017}}</ref> Locally designated '''B.KhF.2''' ({{langx|th|บ.ขฝ.๒}}).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Thai Military Aircraft Designations |url=https://designation-systems.net/non-us/thailand.html |access-date=2025-03-18 |website=designation-systems.net}}</ref> ;{{USA}} * '''T-50A:''' Failed candidate for the US Air Force T-X program, based on the FA-50.<ref name="Lockheed Martin T-50A">{{cite web |url=http://lockheedmartin.com/us/products/t50A.html |title=Lockheed Martin presents T-50A |date=11 February 2016 |access-date=12 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160212083056/http://lockheedmartin.com/us/products/t50A.html |archive-date=12 February 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> * '''TF-50A:''' Candidate for the US Air Force Advanced Tactical Trainer program, based on the FA-50.<ref name="LM0101">{{cite web |url=https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2023-06-20-Lockheed-Martin,-Korea-Aerospace-Industries-Red-6-Announce-Initial-Augmented-Reality-Integration-Work-for-T-50-Platform |title=Lockheed Martin, Korea Aerospace Industries & Red 6 Announce Initial Augmented Reality Integration Work For T-50 Platform |publisher=Lockheed Martin |access-date=20 June 2023}}</ref><ref name="lockheedmartin.com">{{cite web | url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/tf-50.html | title=TF-50 Trainer Jet: The Future of Fighter Pilot Training }}</ref> * '''TF-50N:''' Candidate for the US Navy Tactical Surrogate Aircraft program and the Undergraduate Jet Training System program, based on the FA-50.<ref name="LM0101"/><ref name="AvWeek 7Sep23">{{cite web |last1=Everstine |first1=Brian |title=U.S. Navy Is Steaming Ahead On A New Trainer |url=https://aviationweek.com/defense-space/aircraft-propulsion/us-navy-steaming-ahead-new-trainer |website=Aviation Week}}</ref><ref name="lockheedmartin.com"/>

== Operators == === Current operators === thumb|400px|Map with operators of T-50 or its variants

; {{flag|Indonesia}} * Indonesian Air Force – 16 T-50i trainers were delivered by January 2014. These were fitted with EL/M-2032 radars and cannons in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |website=Ministry of Defense of Indonesia |date=9 November 2018 |title=Penandatanganan Kontrak Kerjasama Kemhan dengan KAI |trans-title=The signing of the Cooperation Contract between the Ministry of Defense and KAI |url=https://www.kemhan.go.id/baranahan/2018/11/09/penandatanganan-kontrak-kerjasama-kemhan-dengan-kai.html |access-date=18 June 2023 |language=id}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=8 November 2018 |title=upgrade work involving the installation of radars and guns on the existing TNI-AU stock of T-50i Golden Eagle trainers |url=http://www.defense-aerospace.com/articles-view/release/3/197469/indonesia-orders-korean-t_50-jet-trainers.html}}</ref> 13 aircraft are in service as of August 2023.<ref>{{cite web |date=11 August 2020 |title=Indonesia: Investigation under way after Air Force training aircraft skids off runway in East Java |url=https://www.thestar.com.my/aseanplus/aseanplus-news/2020/08/11/indonesia-investigation-under-way-after-air-force-training-aircraft-skids-off-runway-in-east-java |website=The Star}}</ref> In July 2021, Indonesia signed a contract for a further six planes at a cost of US$240 million with initial planned delivery by October 2024.<ref>{{cite web |author= |date=25 July 2021 |title=Indonesia Ordered Six T-50 Advanced Training Aircraft |url=https://www.globaldefensecorp.com/2021/07/26/indonesia-ordered-six-t-50-advanced-training-aircraft/ |access-date=26 July 2021 |website=Global Defense Corp |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=20 July 2021 |title=Korea Aerospace wins US$240 mln trainer jet deal in Indonesia |url=https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20210720005000320 |website=Yonhap News Agency}}</ref> Two were delivered in February 2026.<ref name="indodelivery1"/> ; {{flag|Iraq}} * Iraqi Air Force – 24 T-50IQ light fighters were delivered by November 2019.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Jennings |first1=Gareth |date=29 November 2019 |title=Iraq receives final T-50IQ light fighter and trainer aircraft |url=https://www.janes.com/article/92916/iraq-receives-final-t-50iq-light-fighter-and-trainer-aircraft |access-date=15 December 2019 |website=IHS Jane's 360}}</ref> ; {{flag|Malaysia}} * Royal Malaysian Air Force – 18 units of FA-50M Block 70 on order.<ref name="Defencesecurityasia_RMAF" /> ; {{flag|Philippines}} * Philippine Air Force – 12 FA-50PH Block 50 light fighters were delivered by May 2017.<ref name="JanesPhilippinesComplete" /> 11 aircraft are in service as of March 2025.<ref>{{cite web |title=PH Air Force: FA-50 fighter jet missing |date=4 March 2025 |url=https://www.rappler.com/philippines/air-force-fa-50-fighter-jet-missing-march-2025/}}</ref> All 11 FA-50 Block 50 are currently being upgraded to Block 60, and Block 70 upgrade in the pipeline.<ref>{{cite web |date=26 December 2025 |title=KAI Signs FA-50PH Upgrade Contract with Philippine Department of Defense |url=https://www.businesskorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=259704 |website=Business Korea}}</ref> 12 additional FA-50PH Block 70 units on order.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waldron |first=Greg |date=2025-06-04 |title=KAI secures additional FA-50 order from the Philippines |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/fixed-wing/kai-secures-additional-fa-50-order-from-the-philippines/163215.article |access-date=2025-06-04 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Citation | year=2025 | title=KAI signs $700 million deal to supply 12 FA-50 jets to Philippines | url=https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/2025-06-04/national/defense/KAI-signs-700-million-deal-to-supply-12-FA50-jets-to-Philippines/2322547 | access-date=6 June 2025}}</ref> ; {{flag|Poland}} * Polish Air Force – 12 FA-50GF Block 50 and 36 FA-50PL Block 70 on order.<ref name="ainpol" /> ; {{flag|South Korea}} * Republic of Korea Air Force – 50 T-50s, 10 T-50Bs, 22 TA-50s,<ref>{{cite web |title=Domestic light aircraft FA-50, delivered to the Air Force this month / 예천 비행단 무장훈련용으로 TA-50 22대 전력화(TA-50 powering 22 units for Yecheon Wing Armament training) |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2014/12/10/2014121001237.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160420134533/http://bemil.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2014/12/10/2014121001237.html |archive-date=20 April 2016 |access-date=10 December 2014}}</ref> and 60 FA-50s<ref>{{cite web |title=Domestic light aircraft FA-50, delivered to the Air Force this month |url=http://www.yonhapnews.co.kr/bulletin/2016/10/21/0200000000AKR20161021049700014.HTML |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161227065334/http://www.yonhapnews.co.kr/bulletin/2016/10/21/0200000000AKR20161021049700014.HTML |archive-date=27 December 2016 |access-date=20 October 2016}}</ref> (142 total) aircraft in service as of October 2016. ; {{flag|Thailand}} * Royal Thai Air Force – 14 T-50TH trainers ordered in total. The first four aircraft were delivered in April 2018.<ref>{{cite web |date=4 April 2018 |title=Thailand's Air Force Commissions First Four T-50TH Supersonic Advanced Trainers |url=https://www.defenseworld.net/news/22285/Thailand___s_Air_Force_Commissions_First_Four_T_50TH_Supersonic_Advanced_Trainers#.Xzm_cXPQF-E |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201130044358/https://www.defenseworld.net/news/22285/Thailand___s_Air_Force_Commissions_First_Four_T_50TH_Supersonic_Advanced_Trainers#.X8R4mn3P23A |archive-date=30 November 2020 |publisher=Defense World}}</ref> Additional 2 FA-50THs ordered.

=== Summary === {| class="wikitable" | rowspan="3" style="background:#EAECF0; width:200px;border-left:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''Operators''' ! rowspan="3" style="width: 60px;border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " |Orders ! colspan="4" style="border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px " |Acquisition ! rowspan="3" style="width: 50px; border-right:solid 1px ;border-left:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " |Losses ! rowspan="3" style="width: 60px; border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " |In service ! rowspan="3" style="width: 250px; border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " |Note |- | ! rowspan="2" align="center" style="width: 50px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''T-50 T-50B''' | ! rowspan="2" align="center" style="width: 50px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''TA-50''' | ! colspan="2" align="center" style="width: 100px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''FA-50''' |- | align="center" style="width: 50px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''Block 10 (40/50)''' | align="center" style="width: 50px; background:#EAECF0;border-bottom:solid 1px" |'''Block 20 (60/70)''' |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Indonesia}} Indonesian Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |T-50i 22 | align="center" |18 (+4) | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |3 ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |15 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 16 T-50. Batch II: 6 T-50. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Iraq}} Iraqi Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |T-50IQ 24 | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |24 | align="center" |— | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |— ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |24 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 24 FA-50 Blk 50. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Malaysia}} Royal Malaysian Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |FA-50M 18 | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |(+18) | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |— ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |0 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 18 FA-50 Blk 70. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Philippines}} Philippine Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |FA-50PH 24 | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |12 {{font color||#ADE2B8|(−11)}} | align="center" |(+12) {{font color||#ADE2B8|(+11)}} | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |1 ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |11 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 12 FA-50 Blk 40, 11 units upgraded to Blk 50, completed. Upgrade to Blk 60 in-progress. Blk 70 upgrade on pipeline.<ref>{{cite web |date=26 December 2025 |title=KAI Signs FA-50PH Upgrade Contract with Philippine Department of Defense |url=https://www.businesskorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=259704 |website=Business Korea}}</ref> Batch II: 12 FA-50 Blk 70. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Poland}} Polish Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |FA-50GF 12<hr>FA-50PL 36 | align="center" |— | align="center" |— | align="center" |12 {{font color||#ADE2B8|(−12)}} | align="center" |(+36) {{font color||#ADE2B8|(+12)}} | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |— ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |12 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 12 FA-50 Blk 50, upgrade to Blk 70 planned. Batch II: 36 FA-50 Blk 70. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|South Korea}} Republic of Korea Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |T-50 50<hr>T-50B 10<hr>TA-50 22<hr>FA-50 60 | align="center" |60 | align="center" |22 | align="center" |60 | align="center" |— | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |3 ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |139 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 20 FA-50 Blk 40, upgraded to Blk 50. Batch II: 40 FA-50 Blk 50. |- | style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px " |{{flagicon|Thailand}} Royal Thai Air Force | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px " |T-50TH 14 | align="center" |10 | align="center" |— | align="center" |4 | align="center" |— | align="center" style="border-left: solid 1px ;border-right: solid 1px " |— ! align="center" style="border-right:solid 1px " |14 | style="border-right:solid 1px " |Batch I: 4 T-50. Batch II: 8 T-50. Batch III: 2 T-50 upgraded to FA-50 Blk 50. Batch IV: 2 FA-50 Blk 50. |- | rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;border-left:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " | '''In service''' | align="center" rowspan="2" style="background:#EAECF0;border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px "| '''Total orders 292''' | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 1px " |'''88''' | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 1px " |'''22''' | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 1px " |'''112''' | align="center" style="background:#EAECF0;border-top:solid 1px " |'''0''' ! rowspan="2" style="border-left:solid 1px ; border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px " | 7<ref name="totalcrash">{{Cite web |url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/asndb/type/K50 |work= Aviation Safety Network|title=ASN Korea Aerospace T-50 Golden Eagle Database}}</ref> ! rowspan="2" style="border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px "| 215 | rowspan="2" style="border-right:solid 1px ;border-top:solid 1px ;border-bottom:solid 1px "| |- ! colspan="4" style="border-bottom:solid 1px " | Total acquired: 222 To be manufactured: 70 |}

;Legend of the colored numbers in the table:

{{legend|#93FFEB|Systems assembled or produced outside of South Korea}}

{{legend|#FFE18B|2nd hand sold/transferred [ – ] and bought/received [ + ]}}

{{legend|#ADE2B8|System upgraded, one variant to the other [ – ] / [ + ]}}

==Accidents and incidents== * On 15 November 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,<ref>{{cite web |last=Hoyle |first=Craig |title=South Korean display team pilot killed in T-50B crash |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/south-korean-display-team-pilot-killed-in-t-50b-crash/107868.article |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250223065839/https://www.flightglobal.com/south-korean-display-team-pilot-killed-in-t-50b-crash/107868.article |archive-date=23 February 2025 |access-date=5 July 2020 |website=Flight Global |language=en}}</ref> due to human error during a maintenance operation.<ref>{{cite web |title=Attrition: For Want Of A Wire |url=https://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htatrit/20121212.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121215014036/https://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htatrit/20121212.aspx |archive-date=15 December 2012 |access-date=5 July 2020 |website=Strategy Page}}</ref> * On 20 December 2015, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i crashed while performing a demonstration during an airshow at Adisutjipto Air Base in Yogyakarta, killing its two pilots,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.smh.com.au/world/jet-fighter-crashes-at-indonesian-air-show-20151220-gls2zm.html |title=Fighter jet crashes at Indonesian air show |date=20 December 2015 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151220191241/http://www.smh.com.au/world/jet-fighter-crashes-at-indonesian-air-show-20151220-gls2zm.html#ixzz3uqtl9NXa |archive-date=20 December 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> possibly caused by pilot error.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20160212164156-20-110610/menhan-jet-tempur-t-50i-jatuh-sebab-kesalahan-teknis-manusia |title= Defense: T-50i fighter jet falls due to human technical error |author= Prima Gumilang |publisher= CNN Indonesia Jumat |date= 12 February 2016 |access-date= 12 July 2017 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20170908020754/https://www.cnnindonesia.com/nasional/20160212164156-20-110610/menhan-jet-tempur-t-50i-jatuh-sebab-kesalahan-teknis-manusia |archive-date= 8 September 2017 |url-status= live}}</ref> * On 10 August 2020, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i pilot died from injuries sustained during a training accident at the Iswahyudi Air Force Base.<ref>Moch. Fiqih Prawira Adjie. [https://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2020/09/03/air-force-confirms-death-of-pilot-after-plane-skids-off-runway.html Air Force confirms death of pilot after plane skids off runway] The Jakarta Post. 3 September 2020</ref> * On 19 July 2022, an Indonesian Air Force T-50i crashed in Central Java during a nighttime training mission, killing its pilot.<ref>{{cite news |date=19 July 2022 |title=Pilot Killed After Indonesian Military Jet Crashes During Training Mission |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-19/indonesian-military-jet-trainer-crashes-killing-its-pilot |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250306061448/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-07-19/indonesian-military-jet-trainer-crashes-killing-its-pilot |archive-date=6 March 2025 |access-date=6 March 2025 |website=Bloomberg News}}</ref> * On 4 March 2025, a Philippine Air Force FA-50PH with two pilots crashed into Mount Kalatungan in Bukidnon during an operation against the New People's Army, killing two of its pilots.<ref>{{Cite web |date=5 March 2025 |title=Missing fighter jet, crew found in Bukidnon mountain |url=https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/3/5/philippine-rescuers-search-for-missing-fighter-crew-1105 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250306061808/https://www.abs-cbn.com/news/nation/2025/3/5/philippine-rescuers-search-for-missing-fighter-crew-1105 |archive-date=6 March 2025 |access-date=6 March 2025 |work=ABS-CBN}}</ref>

==Specifications (T-50)== thumb|FA-50 Fighting Eagle thumb|FA-50 landing for ROKAF's first delivery thumb|TA-50 Lead in Fighter Trainer at KAI thumb|T-50 Golden Eagles lining up

{{Aircraft specs | ref = ''Korea Aerospace Industries''<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/T50.aspx|title=T-50 Advanced Jet Trainer |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230731233204/https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/T50.aspx |archivedate=31 July 2023 |accessdate=31 July 2023}}</ref><ref name="KAI_specs">{{cite web |url=http://www.koreaaero.com/english/product/fixedwing_t-50.asp |title=T-50 FAMILY |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries |date=2012 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120719220955/http://www.koreaaero.com/english/product/fixedwing_t-50.asp |archivedate=19 July 2012 |accessdate=19 July 2012}}</ref><ref name="KAI FA-50">{{cite web |url=https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/FA50.aspx |title=FA-50 Fighter Jet |publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230916221526/https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/FA50.aspx |archivedate=16 September 2023 |accessdate=16 September 2023}}</ref> | prime units? = met | crew = 2 | length m = 13.14 | length ft = 43.1 | length note = | span m = 9.45 | span ft = 31 | span note = with wingtip missiles | height m = 4.82 | height ft = 15.7 | height note = | wing area sqm = 23.69 | wing area note = <ref name="koreaaero.tistory">{{cite web|url=https://koreaaero.tistory.com/4|title=FA-50, 대한민국에서 만든 최초의 경공격기|publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries|date=2 February 2013|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20220827015328/https://koreaaero.tistory.com/4|archivedate=27 August 2022|accessdate=27 August 2022}}</ref> | aspect ratio =  | airfoil =  | empty weight kg = 6470 | empty weight lb = 14285 | empty weight note = | gross weight kg = | gross weight note = | max takeoff weight kg = 10722 | max takeoff weight lb = 23638 | max takeoff weight note = | fuel capacity = {{convert|2655|L|gal|sp=us}} internal | eng1 number = 1 | eng1 name = General Electric F404-GE-102 | eng1 type = afterburning turbofan engine (built under license by Samsung Techwin<ref name=F404_engines/>) | eng1 kn = 53.07 | eng1 note = | power original = | thrust original = | eng1 kn-ab = 78.7 | max speed kmh = 1840 | max speed note = at {{cvt|9150|m|-2}} | max speed mach = 1.5<ref name=KAI_specs/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/products/t50/t-50-specifications.html|title=T-50 MULTIROLE TRAINER|publisher=Lockheed Martin|date=|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120616163453/http://www.lockheedmartin.com/us/products/t50/t-50-specifications.html|archivedate=16 June 2012|accessdate=16 June 2012}}</ref> | cruise speed kmh = | cruise speed note = | stall speed kmh = | stall speed note = | never exceed speed kmh = | never exceed speed note = | range km = 1851 | range note = | combat range km = | combat range note = | ferry range km = | ferry range note = | endurance =  | ceiling m = 14630 | ceiling note = | g limits = <big>+</big>8 <big>−</big>3 | roll rate =  | climb rate ms = 198 | climb rate note = | time to altitude = | wing loading kg/m2 = | wing loading note = | fuel consumption kg/km = | thrust/weight = 0.96 | more performance =  :''Note: armament for '''TA-50''' and '''FA-50''' only.'' | guns = 1× General Dynamics M197 20mm (0.787 in) 3-barrel rotary electric cannon, 205 rounds<ref name=air_force_tech /><ref name=GD-OTS_M197/><ref name=Aero_aerial_gunfire>{{cite web |url=http://www.aero-news.net/annticker.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=2cc421da-1641-457d-9ffc-e9f9bac9284b |title= T-50 Aircraft Completes Aerial Gunfire Testing |website= Aero-News Network, aero-news.net}}</ref> | hardpoints = Total of 7 with 4 underwing, 2 wingtip and one under fuselage; holding up to {{convert|12000|lb|kg|order=flip|abbr=on}} of payload<ref name="koreaaero.tistory" /> | hardpoint capacity = | missiles = ** '''Air-to-air missiles:''' *** AIM-9L/M Sidewinder<ref name="KAI FA-50" /> *** AIM-9X Sidewinder (Block 70)<ref name="KAI FA-50" /> *** AIM-120 AMRAAM (Block 70)<ref name="ainonline.com"/><ref name="auto1">{{cite web |url=http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/bbs/view.html?b_bbs_id=10158&pn=1&num=5525 |title=FA-50- |access-date=1 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401070047/http://bemil.chosun.com/nbrd/bbs/view.html?b_bbs_id=10158&pn=1&num=5525 |archive-date=1 April 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref> ** '''Air-to-ground missiles:''' *** AGM-65 Maverick<ref name="KAI FA-50" /> | bombs = ** GBU-38 Joint Direct Attack Munition<ref name="KAI FA-50" /> ** GBU-12 Paveway II<ref name="auto1"/> ** KGGB<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.add.re.kr/board?menuId=MENU02862&siteId=SITE00003|title=Korean Guided GPS Bomb kit(KGGB)|publisher=Agency for Defense Development|date=|archiveurl=https://archive.today/20230521150521/https://www.add.re.kr/board?menuId=MENU02862&siteId=SITE00003|archivedate=21 May 2023|accessdate=21 May 2023|author=}}</ref> ** Mark 82 bomb ** CBU-105 WCMD Sensor Fuzed Weapon ** CBU-58 ** SUU-20 Dispenser<ref name="KAI FA-50" /> * '''Others:''' ** Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod<ref name="auto1"/> | avionics = * Lockheed Martin AN/APG-67 (T-50IQ) * Elta EL/M-2032 (TA-50 and FA-50 Block 50) * Raytheon PhantomStrike AESA radar (FA-50 Block 70)<ref name="Raytheon 2025-10-20" /> * LIG Nex1 ESR-500A AESA radar (Option for FA-50 Block 70)<ref name="LIG Nex1 2023-05-02">{{cite web|url=https://www.lignex1.com/web/kor/prcenter/news/view.do?seq=5723|title=LIG넥스원, FA-50에 적용 가능한 AESA 레이더 선보인다|publisher=LIG Nex1|date=2 May 2022|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514085901/https://www.lignex1.com/web/kor/prcenter/news/view.do?seq=5723|archivedate=14 May 2023|accessdate=14 May 2023|author=}}</ref> }}

===Variant specifications=== {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" |- ! <ref name="koreaaero.tistory" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/TA50.aspx|title=TA-50 Lead-in Fighter Trainer|publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries|date=|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404072601/https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/TA50.aspx|archivedate=4 April 2024|accessdate=4 April 2024|author1=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/T50B.aspx|title=T-50B Acrobatic Demonstrator|publisher=Korea Aerospace Industries|date=|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922023757/https://www.koreaaero.com/EN/Business/T50B.aspx|archivedate=22 September 2023|accessdate=22 September 2023|author1=}}</ref> ! FA-50 Block 10 ! TA-50 ! T-50B |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Length | colspan = "3" align ="center" | 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in) |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Wingspan | colspan = "3" align ="center" | 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in) |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Height | colspan = "3" align ="center" | 4.82 m (15 ft 8 in) |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Wing area | colspan = "3" align ="center" | 23.69 m2 (255.0 sq ft) |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Empty weight | 6,454 kg (14,229 lb) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Max takeoff weight | 12,215 kg (26,929 lb) | 12,223 kg (26,947 lb) | 10,722 kg (23,638 lb) |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Internal fuel | 2.5 t (2.5 long tons; 2.8 short tons) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | External fuel | 3x 150 US gal (120 imp gal; 570 L) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Range | 1,851 km (1,150 mi, 1,000 nmi) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Combat range | 444 km (276 mi, 230 nmi) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Ferry range | 2,592 km (1,611 mi, 1,400 nmi) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | Service ceiling | 16,764 m (55,000 ft) | | |- | style="font-weight:bold; background-color:#eaecf0;" | g limits | +8.3 / −3 | | |}

==See also== {{Portal|South Korea|Aviation}} {{aircontent |see also= |related= * General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon |similar aircraft= * Aero L-159 ALCA * AIDC T-5 Brave Eagle * Alenia Aermacchi M-346 Master * Boeing–Saab T-7 Red Hawk * Guizhou JL-9 * Hongdu JL-10 * TAI Hürjet * Yakovlev Yak-130 |lists=  }}

==References== {{reflist|30em}}

==External links== {{Commons category|Korea Aerospace Industries T-50 Golden Eagle}} {{external media |topic = From "Lastochka" to "Fighting Eagle" |video1 = {{YouTube|gb49uNSn0T0|"FA-50 aircraft will strengthen the capabilities of the Air Force" on Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej Official YouTube Channel|}} |video2 = {{YouTube|L_sSGAJSuP4|"Solo in FA-50" on Polska Zbrojna Official YouTube Channel|}} |video3 = {{YouTube|gP6ADBGe5YM|"The twelve newest planes" on Polska Zbrojna Official YouTube Channel|}} }} * [https://www.koreaaero.com/KO/Business/T50.aspx KAI T-50 page] * [https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/t-50.html Lockheed Martin T-50 product page] * {{YouTube|Py88Qxc61No|"Black Eagles" Aerobatic Team on KAI T-50 Golden Eagle}}

{{KAI aircraft}} {{Lockheed Martin aircraft}} {{Lockheed Martin|state=collapsed}} {{F-16 Fighting Falcon variants}} {{USAF trainer aircraft}} {{Thai trainer designations}} {{Thai fighter designations}}

T-50 Category:2000s South Korean military trainer aircraft Category:Single-engined jet aircraft Category:General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon Category:Mid-wing aircraft Category:Aircraft first flown in 2002 Category:Fourth-generation jet fighters Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear