South Korea’s first mass-produced KF-21 fighter jet enters final assembly

South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae fighter jet has officially entered the production phase, with the first mass-produced unit now in final assembly at Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in Sacheon Airport (HIN). 

On May 20, 2025, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) held a ceremony to mark the start of final assembly for the first mass-produced KF-21 Boramae fighter jet.  

Since the launch of mass production in July 2024, the aircraft has advanced through various manufacturing stages, including component fabrication and the assembly of the front, center, and rear fuselage sections. Final assembly brings together the full airframe, fuselage, wings, and empennage, along with the integration of engines, avionics, and mission systems. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 방위사업청(방사청) (@dapa_korea_official)

Once this phase is completed, the aircraft will undergo ground and flight testing as part of the acceptance process before being handed over to the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF). Delivery is expected in the second half of 2026, pending the successful completion of these trials. 

“This historic milestone, beginning the final assembly of the KF-21, has been made possible by the dedication of our researchers and developers. It marks a significant step toward shaping the future of the Republic of Korea Air Force,” said Jeong Gyu-heon, Head of DAPA’s Future Power Business Division. “For the successful mass production and deployment of the KF-21 to contribute to economic growth and elevate Korea’s global standing, seamless communication and close collaboration between government, industry, and partner companies are essential.”

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What is the KF-21 Boramae fighter jet?  

The KF-21 is South Korea’s first domestically developed fighter jet, the product of the KF-X program, a joint project between South Korea and Indonesia. Designed to replace aging F-4E and F-5E aircraft in the ROKAF, the KF-21 is expected to become a cornerstone of the country’s air power over the coming decades. 

The twin-engine KF-21 Boramae is powered by two GE F414 engines – the same type used in the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F. While it lacks an internal weapons bay, its advanced avionics, radar systems, and low-observable design grant it 4.5-generation capability. The aircraft boasts a top speed of Mach 1.8, a range of approximately 2,900 kilometers, and a maximum weapons payload of 7,700 kilograms. 

With a planned acquisition of 120 units by 2032, the KF-21 will play a central role in modernizing the ROKAF’s combat fleet. 

Eyes on export 

Beyond meeting domestic requirements, the KF-21 is also being positioned as a competitive export product. DAPA officials also highlighted plans to strengthen the aircraft’s export competitiveness as South Korea expands its footprint in the global defense industry. 

In July 2022, Mariusz Błaszczak, then-Polish Minister of National Defense, said that the Polish Air Force was monitoring the progress of the KF-21 Boramae as it seeks to acquire more air superiority fighters. Earlier that month, Poland ordered 48 KAI FA-50 Fighting Eagle light attack aircraft after failing to secure the timely delivery of Lockheed Martin F-16 Falcon fighter jets from the US. 

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