South Korea just flew the KF-21 fighter jet in its first test flight. This new 4.5-generation aircraft is a rival to China's J-10CE and could also be sold to Southeast Asian nations. The KF-21's inaugural flight was conducted last month. It is anticipated that it will be in service by 2032.
South Korea's homegrown fighter jet completed its first test flight
South Korea Aerospace Industries completed the first flight of its new fighter plane. The KF-21 replaces the country's existing fighter jet fleet. It has been designed to be an affordable alternative to F-35 Lightning II stealth bombers developed by America. It is the first homegrown fighter jet to complete a test flight and will join an elite group of seven aircraft developed by several countries.
It is a 4.5-generation aircraft
The KF-21 is a South Korean fighter jet that is being touted as a cheaper alternative to the Lockheed Martin F-35. The KF-21, while it might not have the stealth or agility of F-35's fighter jets, is still a significant investment in South Korean sovereignty. The Korean Air Force plans to have the aircraft in its service by 2026. The program faced numerous obstacles, including Washington's refusal for key technology patents to be shared. The KF-21 program will be subject to at least four year of testing before mass production. The aircraft will fly at most 2,000 sorties in that time frame before mass production. The KF-21 will enter service with the South Korean Air Force in 2026. The Boramae fighter also known by the KF-21 is a fifth-generation fighter.
It will be a rival to China's J-10CE
China's fourth-generation multirole combat aircraft, the Chengdu J-10 from China. The J-10 aircraft was launched in 2005. It is a single -engine aircraft equipped with advanced avionics. Its capabilities could make it a rival to the KF-21.
It could be exported to Southeast Asian countries
A recent Indonesian order for 50 KF-21 fighter jets will have significant implications for the balance of military air power in Southeast Asia, as these aircraft will be equipped with advanced air-to-air missiles and air-to-ground munitions. The term "arms race", which is used to describe new weapon acquisitions, is often more widely used and generates more advertising revenue. However, a more thorough analysis of national weapons acquisitions will provide a more nuanced picture. The main concerns for Indonesia are expanding territorial defense and decreasing aircraft fleet obsolescence.
It will cost $7.9 trillion
The KF-21, a multirole fighter aircraft capable of flying multiple roles, is being developed by South Korea in collaboration with Indonesia. Indonesia is contributing 20 percent of the cost of developing the fighter. Indonesia will buy 50 of these fighters as a return. However, Indonesia has been late on payments for the program. This has raised questions about South Korea’s willingness share crucial military technology with Indonesia.
It will include sixth-generation technology
The KF-21 is a major step forward in combat capabilities. There are many applications for it in both the ROKAF market and in export markets. The proven F414-GE-414K U.S. General Electric engine will power the aircraft. This engine is also used on several aircraft types including the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, and JAS 39E/F Gripen. The aircraft will also come equipped with German-made IRIS-T medium-range weapons, as well as MBDA Meteor primary air-to-air armament.