KRE-075 Rocket Engine — Nuri/KSLV-II First Stage Propulsion by Hanwha
Description
Hanwha Aerospace is a South Korean defense and aerospace conglomerate providing engine systems for Korea's Nuri (KSLV-II) orbital launch vehicle. Hanwha Aerospace designed and manufactured the KRE-075 — the 75-ton-force liquid-propellant rocket engine burning liquid oxygen (LOX) and kerosene (RP-1) that powers the Nuri first stage (4 engines in cluster) and second stage (1 engine). The KRE-075 generates 735 kN thrust at sea level and 885 kN in vacuum, with a specific impulse of 298 s at sea level and 315 s in vacuum. Hanwha Aerospace conducted a full combustion test series at the Naro Space Center including the critical 75-ton engine comprehensive combustion test shown (July 2018). Development of the KRE-075 was a major milestone in Korea's space propulsion self-sufficiency program — previously, Korea depended on Russian rocket engines. Hanwha Aerospace is also a major manufacturer of gas turbine engines (T700/CT7 licensed from GE Aviation for Korean utility helicopters), K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers, and K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers. The company participates in F-35 sustainment, T-50 Golden Eagle jet trainer production, and is developing the KF-21 Boramae fighter's engine systems.