Korean Air has entered a strategic alliance with the French firm Exotrail to develop Orbital Transfer Vehicle (OTV) solutions, under a Memorandum of Understanding signed on April 2, 2026 in Seoul. This partnership looks to meet the growing demand for ultra-small satellite constellations in both the defense and commercial sectors, utilizing Korean Air’s expertise in launch vehicle and satellite systems, along with Exotrail’s specialization in electric space propulsion.

The collaboration will emphasize providing valuable space services such as Low Earth Orbit satellite transport, multi-orbit satellite deployment, and satellite life extension. A joint working group will be initiated to coordinate launch schedules and maximize cost-efficiency in orbital transport. A representative from Korean Air remarked, “By combining Exotrail’s proven space heritage with Korean Air’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities, we aim to secure a competitive advantage in the New Space market.”

OTVs are critical for the efficient delivery of satellites, facilitating the deployment of several satellites into different orbits from a single launch vehicle, thus enhancing efficiency as demand for small satellite constellations rises worldwide.

This initiative builds on Korean Air’s development of a 35-tonne reusable methane engine in collaboration with Hyundai Rotem, set to launch in 2025. Together, these projects broaden Korean Air’s aerospace operations to encompass both launch vehicle production and specialized orbital transport services, indicating a major advancement in the company’s New Space strategy.