Korean KF-21 Confirms Supersonic Performance, Readiness for Service

South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae fighter jet has officially completed all planned flight tests after an almost 42-month campaign.

During this period, about 1,600 flights were conducted without a single accident, underscoring the reliability of the airframe and onboard systems, Jettline Marvel reported.

The program included an extended flight-test cycle covering aerodynamics, flight controls, weapons systems, and maneuverability.

During testing, the KF-21 exceeded Mach 1, confirming that its aerodynamics and powerplant meet the requirements for a modern multirole fighter.

The aircraft is equipped with a domestically developed AESA radar by Hanwha Systems, capable of simultaneously tracking multiple air, ground, and maritime targets.

The KF-21 also conducted trials with standard armaments, including air-to-air missile launches and gunnery tests in various modes.

Production plans call for the start of serial deliveries in 2026, with the first production Boramae aircraft to be transferred to the Republic of Korea Air Force in the second half of the year.

A total of 40 Block I aircraft are expected to enter service by 2028, replacing aging F-4 and F-5 fighter jets in the ROKAF fleet.

The long-term plan envisions up to 120 KF-21 aircraft by the early 2030s, primarily Block I and Block II variants, with scope for expanded strike and multirole capabilities.

One of the platform’s key advantages is its relatively low operating cost and flexible avionics architecture, which facilitates the integration of new systems and weapons.

With testing complete, the KF-21 is transitioning from development to operational deployment and export promotion, positioning itself as an option for countries without access to the F-35.

South Korea previously announced the launch of KF-21 serial production.