KAI Signs First Mass Production Contract for KF-21 Worth 1.9 Trillion Won

KF-21 20 Units and Follow-up Logistics Support... Deployment Planned for 2026

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) announced that it has signed the first mass production contract for the Korean Fighter KF-21.

On the 17th, the domestically produced supersonic fighter jet KF-21 was unveiled at the 'Seoul International Aerospace and Defense Exhibition (ADEX) 2023' held at Seoul Airport in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province. Photo by Jinhyung Kang aymsdream@

According to KAI on the 25th, the contract signed with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration is worth a total of 1.96 trillion KRW, including 20 KF-21 aircraft and subsequent logistics support (technical manuals, training, etc.).

The Korean Fighter (KF-X) system development project aims to develop a 4.5-generation fighter that replaces the Air Force's long-term operational fighters F-4 and F-5 and meets future battlefield operation concepts. The system development began in 2015. The total development period is 10 years and 6 months, with system development expected to be completed in 2026. Mass production deliveries will start from the end of 2026, with plans to operationalize the aircraft in the Republic of Korea Air Force. Approximately 600 domestic partner companies are participating in the KF-21 development, targeting a localization rate of 65%.

The KF-21 began its first prototype flight in July 2022 and has actively started test flights. In March of this year, it succeeded in aerial refueling flights, securing long-range operational capability, and successfully launched the air-to-air Meteor missile, expanding mission areas such as aircraft altitude, speed, and maneuverability to enhance the fighter's completeness. Through initial test evaluations, it received a 'provisional combat suitability certification' in May last year, and in March this year, it obtained initial mass production approval from the Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee.