The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) is on the cusp of a transformative leap in its combat capabilities with the introduction of the KAI KF-21 Boramae, a multirole fighter jet poised to become the future “backbone” of the nation’s aerial combat forces. The KF-21, with its cutting-edge avionics and limited stealth features, embodies South Korea’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities and bolstering its strategic autonomy.
The KF-21 was first unveiled in April 2021, and its development has been a tale of resilience and technological ambition. Originating from a 2001 announcement, the jet represents a strategic partnership between South Korea and Indonesia.
On the precipice of mass production, South Korea earmarked 238.7 billion won (U.S. $178.6 million) in 2023 to construct 40 KF-21 jets, amidst ongoing flight and ground tests. This investment signals the readiness to replace older aircraft, such as the F-4 and F-5 fleets, with a new generation of advanced fighters.
Incorporating next-generation technologies, the KF-21 is equipped with active electronically scanned array radars and can wield an assortment of precision-guided munitions, including advanced air-to-air and air-to-surface missiles. It should be noted that, “the Defense Acquisition Program Administration and KAI have been testing missiles to mount on the KF-21 to boost its competitiveness on the international market.”
The fighter’s role extends beyond mere replacement of dated platforms; it is pivotal in implementing the three-axis defense strategy, a framework dictating South Korea’s response to potential aggression from the North.
However, the KF-21’s journey has not been without challenges. Originally intended to surpass the F-16 Fighting Falcon in performance, stringent requirements led to design complexities. The ROKAF intervened to adjust the ambition to a 4.5-generation aircraft with limited stealth to maintain feasibility. As a result, the aircraft does not feature internal weapons bays, a characteristic of fifth-generation fighters, but boasts a stealthier design than its fourth-generation predecessors.
The flight test program is robust, with the inaugural flight occurring in July 2022 and at least 300 out of 2,000 planned test flights completed by October 2023. These efforts will continue until 2028 when ROKAF squadrons are expected to commence operational missions with the KF-21.
Financially, the program is a collaborative effort, with South Korea shouldering 60%, KAI 20%, and Indonesia covering the remaining stake. Despite some payment delays from Indonesia, the Government has fulfilled its commitment to the plan.
KAI is not only focused on the KF-21’s domestic success but also aims for international market penetration. The aircraft has garnered interest from countries like Poland and the United Arab Emirates. The ambition is evident in KAI’s prior successes, such as the FA-50 light attack aircraft contracts with Poland and the Royal Malaysian Air Force.
The KF-21 Boramae stands as a testament to South Korea’s growing stature as a significant arms exporter. The manufacturer aims to start deliveries of the aircraft in 2026. The aircraft manufacturer plans to deliver at least 40 aircraft by 2028. South Korea aims to deploy more than 120 such aircraft by 2032. The aircraft will also be used for export, and foreign militaries can buy the South Korean jet and deploy it to their fleet.
Relevant articles:
– South Korean Fighter Jet: 5 Fast Facts About The KAI KF-21 Boramae, Simple Flying
– South Korea to start mass production of KF-21 fighter jets, Defense News, Feb 2, 2024
– KAI KF-21 Boramae, Falcon BMS Forum