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KAI KF-21 Boramae

The KAI KF-21 Boramae is a South Korean twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft developed by Korea Aerospace Industries for the Republic of Korea Air Force.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated September 11, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The KAI KF-21 Boramae is a South Korean twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for the Republic of Korea Air Force. Formerly known as the KF-X programme, it is generally described as a 4.5-generation fighter with reduced radar signature. The aircraft first flew in July 2022 and is intended to replace older F-4 Phantom II and F-5 Tiger II aircraft.

Development

The KF-21 Boramae was developed under the KF-X programme, which began in 2016. The program was launched to create an indigenous multirole fighter for South Korea. The first prototype was rolled out in 2021 and made its maiden flight on 19 July 2022.

Design

The KF-21 is a twin-engine multirole fighter, described as a 4.5-generation aircraft with reduced radar signature. It is powered by two General Electric F414 engines and can be configured for single or two-seat operations. The design incorporates indigenous and Western avionics and weapons systems.

Production and service entry

Production of the KF-21 began after the first prototype flight in 2022. The first production aircraft was rolled out in 2026, marking the start of mass production. The aircraft is expected to enter service with the Republic of Korea Air Force in stages, with continued testing and fielding planned.

Operational role

The KF-21 is intended to replace the Republic of Korea Air Force's older F-4 Phantom II and F-5 Tiger II aircraft. It is designed for air-to-air and multirole missions, serving as a 4.5-generation fighter.

Key facts

  • The KAI KF-21 Boramae is a South Korean twin-engine multirole fighter developed by Korea Aerospace Industries.
  • It is described as a 4.5-generation fighter with reduced radar signature.
  • The aircraft first flew on 19 July 2022.
  • It is intended to replace the F-4 Phantom II and F-5 Tiger II in South Korean service.
  • Production began in 2026 with the rollout of the first production aircraft.
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Canadian context

No major direct Canada-specific connection is established in the provided sources; the KF-21 is primarily a South Korean military aviation program.

Frequently asked questions

What is the KF-21?
The KF-21 Boramae is a South Korean twin-engine multirole fighter aircraft developed by KAI for the Republic of Korea Air Force.
What does Boramae mean?
Boramae is commonly translated as “hunting hawk” or “hawk” in Korean usage.
When did the KF-21 first fly?
The first prototype flight took place on 19 July 2022.
Is the KF-21 a stealth fighter?
It is usually described as having reduced radar signature or partial stealth features, rather than a full stealth design.
What aircraft will it replace?
It is intended to replace South Korea’s older F-4 Phantom II and F-5 Tiger II fighters.
Who makes the KF-21?
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) manufactures the aircraft.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KAI_KF-21_Boramae
    Supports: Basic identification, former KF-X name, role, and development overview.
  2. Breaking Defense — https://breakingdefense.com/2026/03/south-koreas-kai-rolls-out-first-production-kf-21-fighter-jet/
    Supports: First production rollout, 4.5-generation description, weapons, and replacement role.
  3. AeroTime — https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/south-korea-kf-21-boramae-mass-production-rollout
    Supports: Twin-engine design, GE F414 engines, performance figures, and production rollout.
  4. The War Zone — https://www.twz.com/air/first-series-produced-kf-21-fighter-rolled-out-in-south-korea
    Supports: Program timeline, prototype flights, production status, and planned fleet numbers.
  5. Airforce Technology — https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/kai-kf-x-multi-role-fighter/
    Supports: KF-X former name, multi-role fighter description, and mass production phase.