Seoul, January 14 - South Korea has achieved a landmark milestone in its defense aviation sector with the announcement that the flight test program for the KF-21 Boramae, the nation's first domestically developed 4.5-generation multirole fighter jet, has been successfully completed. On January 13, 2026, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) confirmed that the rigorous testing phase concluded on January 12, with the fourth prototype conducting the final flight performance verification mission over the seas near Sacheon. This accomplishment comes two months ahead of the original schedule, underscoring the efficiency and precision of the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) development effort. The program, which began with the maiden flight in July 2022, involved six prototypes and demonstrated the aircraft's reliability through an impeccable safety record.
Over the 42-month testing period, the KF-21 Boramae completed approximately 1,600 sorties, validating more than 13,000 individual test conditions without a single accident. These comprehensive evaluations covered critical aspects of performance, including supersonic capabilities, flight stability, weapon integration, aerial refueling, and operations in diverse environmental scenarios. The flawless execution highlights the advanced engineering and technological prowess embedded in this indigenous fighter, designed to replace the Republic of Korea Air Force's aging F-4 and F-5 fleets while enhancing national air defense capabilities amid evolving regional security dynamics.
The completion of the flight test program marks a pivotal transition from development to full-scale production for the KF-21 Boramae. With system development now slated for finalization in the first half of 2026, mass-produced aircraft are expected to begin delivery to the Republic of Korea Air Force in the second half of the year. Initial plans call for the deployment of 40 Block I units by 2028, with an additional 80 Block II aircraft targeted for integration by 2032, bringing the total fleet to around 120 fighters. This phased rollout positions the KF-21 as a cornerstone of South Korea's modernized air power.
This achievement not only represents a triumph of South Korean aerospace innovation but also opens doors for potential international collaboration and export opportunities. As the KF-21 Boramae prepares to enter frontline service, it stands as a symbol of technological independence and strategic readiness in an increasingly complex global landscape.