South Korea sets 2026 target to mass-produce KF-21 fighter jets that could ‘rival’ Chinese warplanes

South Korean analysts say the KF-21 Boramae could emerge as a rival to China’s J10 and FC31 fighters in markets such as Asia, Africa and the Middle East

The home-grown jet has ‘good price competitiveness’ and could prove to be an alternative choice for countries eyeing China’s J20 stealth fighter in combat capabilities

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A prototype of the homegrown KF-21 fighter at the headquarters of Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd., the country’s sole aircraft maker, in Sacheon, South Korea in July. Photo: EPA-EFE/Yonhap

Published: 8:30am, 10 Aug 2022

South Korea is seeking a niche market for its semi-stealth fighter jets praised for their high agility and low maintenance costs, which are likely to emerge as a cost-effective alternative to Chinese warplanes, analysts in the country have said.

The KF-21 Boramae, meaning “hawk” in Korean, is likely to provide stiff competition for China’s J10 CE and FC31 fighters in the global market, especially in Africa, the observers said.

In the latest development surrounding the KF-21, South Korea is seeking to begin mass production of the jets by 2026, with the air force to acquire 40 planes. By 2026, the high-end fighter will focus on having air-to-air combat capabilities.

Chinese observers have previously said the new jets were far from comparable to advanced fifth-generation fighters like China’s Chengdu J-20 but noted that if mass deployed, the KF-21 could still alter the regional air force power balance.

The KF-21 Boramae will be equipped with air-to-air missiles. Photo: dpa

Built by the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), the jet took six-and-a-half years to develop and went on its maiden flight last month, after initial criticism that the 8.8 trillion won (US$6.7 billion) project was too costly.