Korea Aerospace Industries KF-21 Boramae
Korea Aerospace Industries · South Korea · first flew 2022 · fighter
The KAI KF-21 Boramae is South Korea's first indigenously designed and built supersonic combat aircraft, a twin-engine multirole fighter intended to replace ageing F-4 Phantoms and F-5 Tigers in Korean Air Force service. It represents a major leap in South Korean aerospace capability.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | Mid-mounted, delta |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turbofan, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 16.9 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | Conventional |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- South Korea's first indigenous supersonic fighter
- Twin-engine with wide-spaced intakes and diverterless inlets
- Four ventral weapons bays flanking centreline on Block II
A large twin-engine fighter with a broad delta-like wing, diverterless supersonic inlets, and a general aerodynamic configuration reminiscent of the F-22 and Eurofighter Typhoon, though conventionally configured. The Korean markings and overall size distinguish it.
Specifications
- The Korea Aerospace Industries KF-21 Boramae has a length of 16.9 m (55 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 11.2 m (37 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 2200 km/h (1367 mph).
- Typical crew: 1.
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
Developed under the KF-X programme beginning in 2015 with Indonesian co-investment, the KF-21 first flew in July 2022. It is designed to be produced in two blocks, with Block I providing external weapons carriage and Block II adding semi-internal weapons bays for reduced radar signature.
Variants
Block I is the initial production standard with external stores; Block II will introduce semi-conformal/internal weapons carriage. A two-seat KF-21B trainer variant is also planned.
Where you'll see it
In development for the Republic of Korea Air Force with first deliveries expected in the late 2020s; Indonesia is a partner nation with planned purchases.
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- T-50 Golden Eagle
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- Beechcraft AT-6E Wolverine
- Boeing F-15EX Eagle II
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