South Korea completes first flight of KF-21 Boramae fighter jet

South Korea has successfully completed the first flight of its new KF-21 Boramae fighter jet. The aircraft flew a 165-kilometer route from the Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI) facility in Sacheon to the Yecheon Air Base.

Accompanied by FA-50, TA-50, and T-50 aircraft in formation, the flight marks a significant milestone in the nation's decades-long effort to develop indigenous combat aircraft. The project, which saw its formal start in December 2015 following an initial announcement in 2001, aims to replace older models like the F-4 Phantom.

Mass production began in June 2024. The South Korean Air Force plans to have more than 100 KF-21 jets operational by the early 2030s. The delivery schedule includes 40 jets by 2028, with an additional 80 units expected by 2032. The first group of aircraft will focus on air-to-air combat, while the second group will be equipped for long-range air-to-ground missile capabilities.