Boeing delivered the first of four modified 737-700IGW airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft to South Korea, the second nation after Australia to receive the airborne radar platform. The first E-737 ordered under South Korea’s Peace Eye program arrived August 1 at Gimhae air force base, Yonhap News Agency reported, citing the Korean Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA). The aircraft was flown from Boeing facilities in Seattle, where mission system testing was performed. It will undergo flight and acceptance before being handed over to the air force in early September, DAPA stated.
Three nations–Australia, South Korea and Turkey–have ordered a total of 14 737 AWACS aircraft in slightly different configurations, but all carrying the Northrop Grumman multi-mode electronically scanned array (MESA) “top hat” radar, providing 360-degree surveillance. Developmental problems associated with integrating the MESA radar for Australia’s Wedgetail program delayed deliveries to that country by four years. Boeing initially delivered four of six aircraft sought by the Royal Australian Air Force with some systems missing. In a June briefing, Boeing said it expects to deliver all six aircraft in full configuration by year-end.
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