South Korea has started developing a hypersonic missile for fighter jets

South Korea has officially confirmed the start of work on a new hypersonic air-launched ballistic missile. This project is designed to significantly enhance the strike capabilities of the country's aviation, especially in the face of growing regional threats.

According to available information, the missile under development will be designed to be installed on board the Russian multipurpose fighter KF-21 Boramae. It is planned that two such missile systems will be integrated into one aircraft, which will make it a powerful platform for high-precision strikes at long distances.

The technical basis for the new missile could be a series of intermediate-range tactical missile systems (KTSSM) already in service. However, unlike the basic models, the new rocket will have hypersonic characteristics and the ability to launch from the air, which makes it much more complex and efficient.

The weapon concept resembles existing foreign analogues, such as the Israeli Air LORA and ROCKS systems, as well as the American Mako hypersonic missile, which is being developed for similar tasks. This indicates South Korea's desire to reach the level of advanced technologies in the field of high-speed weapons.

The development is at an early stage, but its successful implementation will strengthen the country's strategic defense capability and expand the Air Force's ability to respond quickly to threats.

South Korea is testing ballistic missiles for KF-21 fighter jets

South Korea is actively working on the development of air-launched ballistic missiles, which has become part of a large-scale program to strengthen its strike aircraft. The goal of the development is to be able to deliver precision air strikes against strategically important targets.

In parallel, work is underway on specialized weapons designed to destroy the enemy's energy infrastructure. Such weapons can be used to disable key energy supply facilities, which reduces the combat capability of enemy forces.

Special attention is being paid to the integration of the new missile with the fifth-generation multirole fighter KF-21 Boramae, being developed by South Korean engineers. If the tests are successfully completed, the missile can be installed on board these aircraft, significantly expanding their combat capabilities.

The implementation of the program will strengthen South Korea's strategic defense power and enhance its ability to respond to threats on the Korean peninsula.

South Korea has shown the future of air warfare: the KF-21 now flies in conjunction with "smart" stealth drones

 

South Korea is taking a decisive step into the future of aerial combat. The country is actively approaching the deployment of a new unmanned aircraft system that will fly in conjunction with the new KF-21 Boramae fighter. The goal is not just to add another drone, but to create a real "family" in the sky, where man and machine work as one, expanding the capabilities of the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) by orders of magnitude.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), the developer of the KF-21, recently released a demo video that looks like footage from an action movie, but it's a real concept for the future of combat. The simulation shows how a transport aircraft releases a group of inconspicuous drones, which then rush forward, escorting a KF-21 fighter jet. It's not just flying in formation, it's a combat team.

Imagine: one pilot in the cockpit of a KF-21, and around him — four drones, the so-called "wingmen" (loyal wingmen). They fly ahead, scan space, find targets, attack enemy radars and planes, while risking not the pilot, but the equipment. The fighter itself is keeping a safe distance at this time, commanding drones and delivering decisive strikes when the situation clears up.

This is a new level of human-machine interaction: the pilot becomes the "conductor of the orchestra," and the drones become his eyes, ears, and fists. This approach makes it possible to significantly reduce the risks for the crew, increase the control area and strike more accurately and faster.

The drones in the video look like compact, stealth-optimized vehicles — stealthy, maneuverable, with their own radars and weapons. They are able to operate autonomously, but under the control of the KF-21 pilot, which makes the entire group flexible and resilient. Even if one drone fails, the rest will continue the mission.

This concept directly competes with similar developments in the USA (for example, Skyborg), Great Britain (Tempest) and China. South Korea, therefore, is not just catching up — it is showing that it can create advanced solutions on its own. And the KF-21 with drones is not a fantasy on paper, but a real stage in the development of national defense.

In the coming years, such "pilot-drone tandems" may become the norm. In the meantime, South Korea has already shown what the air war of tomorrow will look like: one man in the cockpit, and an army of smart cars in the sky.

South Korea's KAI has received a second contract for the production of 20 KF-21 Boramae fighters worth 2.39 trillion won

Korea Aerospace Industries Co. (KAI) has announced the signing of a second major contract with the Office of the South Korean Defense Procurement Program (DAPA) for the production of 20 additional KF-21 Boramae fighters of its own production. The value of the agreement is about 2.39 trillion won (1.76 billion US dollars).

The main details of the contract

- The contract includes not only aircraft production, but also logistical support — technical manuals and training programs for pilots and technicians.

- Delivery of the first 20 fighters under the first contract is scheduled for the second half of 2026.

- According to the plan, a total of 40 KF-21 aircraft will be delivered by 2028.

- The overall goal is to produce 120 KF-21 fighters by 2032.

The KF-21 is a 4.5 generation multi—role fighter developed by South Korea in collaboration with Indonesia. The aircraft is designed to replace the outdated F-4, F-5, KF-16 and F-15K models in the South Korean Air Force. It is equipped with two General Electric F414 engines, is capable of speeds up to Mach 1.8 and carries a wide range of weapons, including guided missiles and bombs.

The KF-21 program symbolizes the significant progress of the South Korean aerospace industry and the country's desire for technological independence in the field of defense. The fighter combines modern avionics, sensors and multi-purpose capabilities, while remaining more affordable than its fifth-generation counterparts.

The KF-21 has already attracted interest from several countries, including Poland, Peru, and the United Arab Emirates, which view it as an alternative to more expensive Western fifth-generation fighters.

The first serial KF-21 Boramae fighter has begun final assembly before delivery to the South Korean Air Force

KF-21 Boramae on assembly in the workshop

The Korean Aerospace Industry (Korea Aerospace Industries, KAI), together with the Office of the Defense Procurement Program (DAPA), announced an important stage in the development of the national fifth-generation fighter. The first serial multifunctional fighter KF-21 Boramae has begun the final stage of assembly, which brings it closer to its official incorporation into the Republic of Korea Air Force.

This became known during a ceremony held at KAI's production facilities in the city of Sacheon. This event took place a little less than a year after the start of mass production of the fighter, as well as exactly ten years after the launch of the program to create its own supersonic combat aircraft.

The KF-21 Boramae fighter, developed with the participation of Indonesian specialists, is positioned as a competitor to the F-35 and other modern fifth-generation aircraft. It is equipped with an advanced radar system, is capable of carrying a wide range of weapons and has the potential for further modernization.

This project is an important step by South Korea towards technological independence in the aircraft industry and strengthening the country's defense capability.

South Korea presents Loyal Wingman: A New Era in the Air Force

 

Loyal Wingman

In the world of modern technology and military engineering, the emergence of a new generation of combat drones is not just an event, but a real breakthrough. South Korea, known for its innovative developments, recently introduced the low-visibility Unmanned Wing Aircraft (LOWUS), or Loyal Wingman, designed to work closely with the KF-21 Boramae multirole fighter. This move marked the beginning of a new era in air operations tactics.

The LOWUS system is an autonomous drone designed to perform fighter aircraft support tasks in the air. The concept of the "Loyal Wingman" has long been discussed by leading world powers such as the United States and Australia, but the South Korean version demonstrates unique features adapted to the needs of the local Air Force.

The LOWUS drone is characterized by a high level of stealth due to its advanced aerodynamic design and the use of modern materials. This allows him to effectively counter the enemy's radar equipment. Moreover, its design makes it possible to integrate a wide range of weapons, from guided missiles to electronic suppression systems.

The main goal of LOWUS is to work in tandem with the fifth—generation fighter KF-21 Boramae, which is the flagship project of the South Korean Air Force. The drone will be able to act as a "stand-in", taking on risky missions such as reconnaissance, destroying ground targets or even eliminating aerial threats. Thus, the manned fighter gets an additional advantage in the form of an extended range and improved protection.

The interface between KF-21 and LOWUS is based on advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies. The drone is able to make decisions in real time by analyzing data from radars, satellites and other information sources. This makes the KF-21 + LOWUS pair one of the most well-coordinated teams among modern air systems.

The development of LOWUS became possible thanks to the joint efforts of the South Korean company Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and other technological leaders of the country. The project combined the latest achievements in the field of aircraft structures, software and electronics.

The following key characteristics are particularly worth noting:

-Stealth: The use of carbon composites and special coatings reduces the likelihood of drone detection.

- Autonomy: Highly intelligent algorithms allow LOWUS to operate practically without human intervention.

-Flexible application: The platform can be easily modified to perform various tasks, from shock to reconnaissance.

The appearance of LOWUS has far-reaching consequences not only for South Korea, but for the entire region. In the context of tensions on the Korean peninsula and the intensification of the military programs of China and Japan, new technologies can become a decisive factor in ensuring a strategic balance of power.

In addition, the success of the project opens up export opportunities. Many countries around the world are interested in acquiring reliable and modern solutions for their air forces. South Korea, which has established itself as a manufacturer of high-quality weapons, can use LOWUS as a powerful tool to strengthen its position in the global market.

The presentation of the LOWUS system symbolizes the transition from traditional methods of aerial combat to a new paradigm where man and machine work together as a single whole. "Loyal Wingman" type drones are becoming an integral part of the future of aviation, and South Korea is making confident steps in this direction.

Now, as the KF-21 Boramae prepares for mass production, LOWUS becomes its ideal partner. Together, they represent a symbiosis of innovation, technology, and military might that can change the rules of the game in the air battles of the 21st century.

Historic test flight of the KF-21 Boramae with the participation of the Chief of Staff of the South Korean Air Force

 KF-21 Boramae

South Korean aircraft manufacturer Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has conducted a successful test flight of its newest fighter aircraft, the KF-21 Boramae. The prototype KF-21-004, one of two two-seat variants, took to the skies from Sacheon Air Base, South Korea, demonstrating its capabilities and performance.

A special feature of this flight was the participation of the Chief of Staff of the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF), General Lee Young-soo. This was the first time that the KF-21 was piloted by a non-test pilot, which underlines the high degree of confidence in the new fighter and its operational readiness.

The main purpose of the test was to evaluate the maneuverability of the aircraft and its overall performance. Special attention was paid to the control characteristics and accuracy of avionics. The KF-21 Boramae, designed to replace the outdated F-4 and F-5 fighter jets, is to become the backbone of the modern South Korean Air Force.

The KF-21 Boramae is a fourth-generation multirole fighter with advanced technology. It is equipped with modern radars, weapons systems and avionics, which allows it to perform a wide range of combat missions. The two-seat version, such as the KF-21-004, is designed for training and combat operations, making it a versatile tool for the Air Force.

The successful test of the KF-21 Boramae is an important step in strengthening South Korea's defense capability. The new fighter will not only enhance the combat capabilities of the Air Force, but will also become a symbol of the country's technological progress. In the context of increasing tension in the region, the KF-21 will become an important element of national security.

After the successful test, KAI plans to continue a series of tests to finally bring the KF-21 to mass production. In the coming years, it is expected that the fighter will begin to enter service with the South Korean Air Force, replacing outdated models and providing the country with modern means of air control.

The test flight of the KF-21 Boramae with the participation of the Chief of Staff of the Air Force, General Lee Young-soo, was an important event for South Korea. The new fighter has demonstrated its capabilities and operational readiness, which opens up new prospects for strengthening the country's national security and technological progress.