CJ Logistics

Transporting a fighter jet overseas is far more than a simple shipment. Moving an aircraft weighing tens of tons, along with its precision electronic systems, requires a high level of logistics expertise and meticulous planning. In particular, defense equipment such as fighter jets demands far stricter control than general cargo, as it involves complex factors including security management, transport stability, and cross-border administrative procedures.
 

Recently, CJ Logistics once again demonstrated our defense logistics capabilities by successfully transporting two T-50i training jets, manufactured by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), to an Indonesian Air Force base. This project was a comprehensive logistics operation encompassing inland transportation within Korea, air transport, local customs clearance, and final delivery. It serves as a strong example of how logistics supports the global expansion of K-defense industries.

A Precise Start Built on Thorough Preparation, Domestic Transport and Pre-Planning The T-50i training jets transported in this project were shipped from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI)’s production base in Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do and delivered to an Indonesian Air Force base. The total cargo volume reached approximately 30 tons, and the operation involved multiple logistics stages, including domestic inland transport, air transport, local customs clearance, and final land delivery. One of the main challenges in transporting fighter jets lies in the structural characteristics of the aircraft. Composed of a large fuselage and precision electronic equipment, even slight changes in the center of gravity or load distribution can affect the aircraft’s balance. In addition, minor vibrations or external impacts during transit can influence the performance of aviation equipment, making precise calculation and analysis essential throughout the entire transport process.
 

To minimize these risks, CJ Logistics conducted a specialized Road Survey procedure tailored for defense logistics. This process involves pre-assessing the actual transport routes to verify feasibility. Given the dimensions of the cargo, approximately 13 meters in length and 4.8 meters in height, various factors such as bridge clearance, road width, turning radius, traffic signals, and road gradients were carefully analyzed to design the optimal transport route. This pre-planning stage is critical for reducing potential risks and ensuring stable movement during transport.

For the domestic transport segment, vibration-free specialized vehicles equipped with air suspension systems were deployed. These vehicles are designed to minimize road impact, making them well-suited for transporting precision equipment. CJ Logistics calculated the exact weight and center of gravity of the aircraft for proper loading and carried out the transport in a way that minimized vibration and shock throughout the journey. Driving speed was also carefully controlled, maintained at an average of approximately 60 km/h to ensure stability. By avoiding excessive speed and maintaining consistency, changes in load and vibration transmitted to the aircraft were minimized. Through this highly controlled process, the long-distance inland transport of approximately 530 km from Sacheon, Gyeongsangnam-do to Incheon Airport was completed safely and successfully.


Beyond the Skies to the Final Destination, Global Air Transport and Local Delivery Following inland transport, the project moved into the full-scale air transport phase. In overseas shipments of defense equipment, considerations extend far beyond standard air cargo operations to include cross-border administrative procedures and airspace overflight approvals. Because military equipment shipments can be significantly affected by whether transit countries grant overflight permission, prior coordination and meticulous planning are essential. CJ Logistics analyzed the likelihood of securing approvals from each country in advance and designed an optimal air route passing through four countries.

For air transport, the fighter jets were shipped using a modular approach, disassembled into four main components including the fuselage, wings, vertical stabilizer, and engine. This method is widely used in transporting large aircraft as it enhances stability, improves loading efficiency, and reduces the risk of damage during transit. Upon arrival at the destination, the aircraft were reassembled locally. CJ Logistics also worked closely with our Indonesian subsidiary to assess local road conditions and transport routes in advance. Transport operations were then carried out under military escort, further ensuring safety and security. The approximately 200 km land transport segment from Juanda Airport to the Indonesian Air Force base was also completed safely. Indonesia’s tropical monsoon climate was another important factor to consider, as high temperatures and sudden rainfall could affect aircraft components. To address this, CJ Logistics applied waterproof coverings and protective equipment to each component, ensuring protection from external environmental conditions throughout the transport process.
 

Another Link Connecting the Global Expansion of K-Defense 

CJ Logistics’ experience in defense logistics extends well beyond this project. Recently, we transported fighter jet training simulators to Poland and carried out a project to deliver T-50TH aircraft to Thailand. We have also completed a range of major aviation defense logistics projects, including the transport of 12 FA-50GF aircraft delivered to Poland in 2023 and 9 Black Eagles T-50B aircraft for participation in the UK International Airshow in 2022. Through these projects, we have continuously strengthened our global defense logistics capabilities. The ability to execute such high-complexity projects with stability is supported by our E2E (End-to-End) logistics system, which integrates and manages the entire process from origin to final destination. This system is recognized as a core competitive strength, enabling efficient operations and reliable project execution even within complex global transport environments.

This project carried out by CJ Logistics goes beyond the transportation of equipment. It highlights the essential role logistics plays in supporting the expansion of Korea’s aerospace and defense technologies into the global market. Moving forward, CJ Logistics will continue to connect markets around the world, leveraging our accumulated project experience and global network to support the global competitiveness of Korea’s defense industry through logistics.


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