South Korea's KF-21 Fighter Jet to Begin Initial Production in 2028, 40 Units for Air Force

South Korea's advanced indigenous fighter jet, the KF-21, has received final approval, being deemed 'suitable for combat use.'

The KF-21 project was initiated following former President Kim Dae-jung's declaration of domestic fighter jet development in August 2001. System development began in December 2015, and its performance and stability have been verified through approximately five years of testing.

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) stated that this certification signifies the KF-21 meets the Air Force's Operational Requirement Capabilities (ROC) and has secured the technological level necessary for mission execution in actual combat environments. The KF-21 system development project is set to conclude next month.

The KF-21 will replace the aging F-4 and F-5 fighter jets. The first production aircraft is scheduled to be delivered to the Air Force in the latter half of this year, and DAPA plans to deliver 40 units from the initial production batch to the Air Force by 2028.

However, due to increased defense budget burdens, the schedule for subsequent production and operational deployment may be adjusted depending on budgetary variables. DAPA is currently in discussions with relevant organizations, including the military.