Singapore Airshow 2022: KF-21 captures Asia-Pacific and European export interest
A model of the KF-21 Boramae on display at the Singapore Airshow. (Photo: Tim Martin)
The KAI KF-21 Boramae 4.5-generation fighter has attracted the attention of potential buyers from Asia-Pacific and Europe, as the manufacturer begins to ramp up preparations for the first flight of the new jet in July.
KAI has completed production of four aircraft to undergo testing as part of an engineering, manufacturing and development (EMD) phase underwritten by South Korea.
The EMD will cover ground tests, flight tests, armament tests and a number of other airworthiness items, all to be held at the KAI facility in Sacheon, South Gyeongsang Province.
‘We expect to complete testing in less than two years and begin production
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
Ground tests for CCA programme underway with flight tests to start mid-2025, says USAF
The ground test phase for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme will bridge the gap between prototype design and flight, laying essential groundwork ahead of fielding the uncrewed aircraft.
-
Northrop Grumman’s completes flight tests of new EW system for F-16s
The two aircraft flew more than 70 sorties in seven months and tested the system in various conditions and mission scenarios.
-
F-15EX and shipbuilding win big in proposed $150 billion US defence funding boost
The legislation outlined additional budget to enhance air, land and naval platforms, including next-generation air and uncrewed naval programmes.
-
Poland approved for another buy of AMRAAMs under $1.3 billion deal
The deal is for 400 AIM-120D-3 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM). It increases the stocks the country already has and follows a US$1.7 billion order for 745 missiles approved in March last year.
-
Italian Army receives first UH-169D light utility helicopter
The delivery is the first in a total of 25 helicopters on order, with all deliveries expected to be completed by 2027.
-
MBDA backs British startup to continue development on heavy-lift drone
The investment will bring together the Hybrid Drones and MBDA to enable the former to further develop its Hydra 400 UAV, previously showcased by the British Army.