On June 13, 2024, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration announced the successful completion of flight tests for the domestically developed 4.5-generation KF-21 fighter jet. This achievement marks a significant milestone in strengthening South Korea’s air force and advancing its aerospace industry. The KF-21 ‘Boramae’ is now ready to operate in real skies, poised to become a key asset in defending the nation’s airspace. During the Seoul International Aerospace & Defense Exhibition (Seoul ADEX 2025) held on October 17, 2025, at Seoul Airport, the Air Force showcased the KF-21’s impressive maneuvers.
Since the rollout ceremony in April 2021, the Ministry of National Defense, Air Force, Agency for Defense Development, and Korea Aerospace Industries have closely collaborated to overcome numerous challenges. Over 42 months, the KF-21 underwent more than 1,600 flight tests without a single accident, verifying its stability and performance through 13,000 test conditions. The final development flight test of prototype No. 4 was completed on June 12, 2024, over Namhae, Sacheon, Gyeongnam. With support from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, Navy, and Coast Guard, the team ensured maritime safety and successfully conducted air-to-air weapon launch tests and extreme maneuverability trials.
The flight test range was expanded from Sacheon to Seosan, and aerial refueling was introduced for the first time in Korea, greatly improving test efficiency and scope. As a result, the development flight test period was shortened by two months ahead of schedule. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration plans to complete system development for the KF-21 in the first half of this year and deliver mass-produced units to the Air Force in the second half. On June 7, 2024, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok visited Korea Aerospace Industries to inspect the production line and KF-21’s internal equipment.
Once deployed, the KF-21 will significantly enhance the Republic of Korea Air Force’s air defense capabilities with its domestically developed advanced fighter. It will also boost preparedness for future aerial combat. Noh Ji-man, head of the Korean Fighter Project at DAPA, stated that the KF-21 represents the pinnacle of Korean aerospace technology and is expected to compete with top global fighters in the international defense market. DAPA is committed to ensuring smooth progress in additional weapon tests, mass production, and operational deployment.