Hanwha Aerospace (KRX:012450) has begun assembling a reusable rocket technology demonstrator at its Suncheon plant for the Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI).

The demonstrator is a test vehicle designed to validate core technologies through low-altitude vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) tests using a small engine, reducing risks in future development, according to a statement on Wednesday.

Standing 12.2 meters tall and weighing 6.4 tons, it is equipped with an 8-ton class engine, smaller than the 80-ton class engine planned for Korea's reusable next-generation launch vehicle.

The goal is to conduct low-altitude VTOL flight tests at the Naro Space Center in 2028 following final assembly and ground testing.

Since 2023, KARI has developed the demonstrator with Hanwha Aerospace (system), Vitzro Nextech (engine), and Hanyang E&G (ground facilities).