South Korea is taking significant strides to advance its indigenous KF-21 Boramae fighter jet, with a comprehensive plan aimed at enhancing its capabilities through the integration of advanced stealth features. Developed by Korea Aerospace Industries, the KF-21 is designed with semi-stealth characteristics and is slated for completion in late 2026. The South Korean government has outlined a commitment to invest approximately 630 billion won (equivalent to $453 million) for Block III upgrades, as reported by local media. These upgrades will focus on incorporating radar-absorbing materials and cutting-edge sensor technologies to improve the aircraft’s stealth.
One of the critical components of this enhancement plan is the internal weapons bay, which is expected to be operational in the early 2030s. This design feature mirrors that of the F-35, allowing the KF-21 to carry a payload inclusive of four Meteor air-to-air missiles or precision-guided bombs. Furthermore, electronic-warfare sensors will be housed within the aircraft to minimize its detectability during missions.
The KF-21’s design incorporates inherent stealth that allows for an internal weapons bay without demanding extensive redesigns. This strategic choice reflects a calculated move; opting for full stealth capabilities from the outset would have likely limited the aircraft’s weapons-carrying capacity, according to Professor Chang Jo-won from Korea Aerospace University. He emphasized the need for balance, stating that an air force relying solely on stealth fighters would be inefficient. The KF-21 is intended to supplant the aging fleet of third-generation F-4 Phantom and KF-5 fighters, while the F-35 remains the cornerstone of South Korea’s aerial defense strategy.
In addition to its stealth enhancements, the KF-21 is set to undergo Block II upgrades featuring an indigenous jet engine and advanced air-to-ground attack capabilities. This new engine, which will replace the currently used US-supplied GE F414 turbofan that powers the Block I version, is projected to be developed at the cost of about 86 billion won ($62 million). The program expects these new air-to-ground capabilities to be fully realized by early 2027. Additional upgrades will include the implementation of an Active Electronically Scanned Array radar developed by Hanwha Systems, as well as the integration of loyal wingman unmanned aerial systems.
With these robust plans in place, South Korea aims to not only modernize its air capabilities but also to ensure that the KF-21 Boramae remains a formidable player in the future aerial landscape, underscoring the nation’s commitment to achieving technological self-sufficiency in defense.
