South Korea Orders Engines for First Small Batch of KF-21 Fighters
On 25 June, South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) confirmed the procurement of a batch of engines for the first production run of the KF-21 Boramae from Korea Aerospace Industries. These engines will be produced by Hanwha Aerospace and will equip the firs tranche of the new 4+ generation fighter jet. This follows the announcement of the start of production back in late February.
The KF-21, sometimes referred to as the Korean Fighter eXperimental (KF-X), is a result of South Korea’s ambitious $7.8 billion project aimed at developing a homegrown fighter jet capable of replacing its aging fleet of F-4D/E Phantom II and F-5E/F Tiger II aircraft. Developed by KAI in collaboration with various international partners, the KF-21 embodies a blend of cutting-edge technology and indigenous innovation.
Hanwha Aerospace announced that it had signed a 556.2 billion-won ($401 million) deal with DAPA to supply 40 F414 engines with the contract running from June 2024 through to December 2027. The company will also provide follow-up logistics support, including engine maintenance manuals and on-site technical assistance.
Small batch production of the KF-21 involves the production of an initial set of aircraft that will undergo extensive testing and evaluation. The primary objectives are to validate the manufacturing processes, ensure quality control, and make necessary adjustments before ramping up to mass production.
The small batch production will consist of a limited number of units typically between five and ten aircraft allowing KAI to fine-tune its production line and address any potential issues in a controlled manner. These fall under the broader $5.85 billion contract signed in February which also covers production planning and preparation for future batches. This incremental approach is vital in mitigating risks and ensuring that each aspect of the aircraft meets the rigorous standards expected of a next-generation fighter jet. As of now a total of six prototypes out of eight have been built by KAI for in-flight test and evaluation. Weapon testing has already begun with tests including IRIS-T air to air missiles.