Hanwha Group is deepening synergy across the space, aviation and defense sectors by raising its stake in Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) beyond the 15 percent threshold. Its increased stake in KAI and the potential for closer business cooperation between the two companies are expected to boost Hanwha's global competitiveness in the sectors, with the aerospace industry now requiring more scale and integration. According to a regulatory filing, Hanwha Systems bought an additional 3.45 percent of KAI shares over the past month, bringing Hanwha Group’s combined stake to 15.89 percent. The stake exceeding 15 percent requires Hanwha to undergo a business combination review by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC). Hanwha is expected to file for the review and is considering taking a greater role in KAI’s key decision-making processes. The closer ties would allow Hanwha to take advantage of KAI’s systems integration capabilities in fighter jets, helicopters and unmanned aircraft, while KAI could tap Hanwha’s strengths in aircraft engines, guided weapons, radar and satellites, as well as in l