South Korea has unveiled a structured plan to upgrade its KF-21 Boramae fighter jet into a next-generation stealth aircraft. The jet, developed by Korea Aerospace Industries, already incorporates partial stealth features and is set to complete its development phase by late 2026. The government now intends to push the program further, transforming the KF-21 into a fully stealth-capable platform over the coming decade.
As part of the modernization, Seoul will invest 630 billion won ($453 million) in the KF-21 Block III upgrades. These enhancements include the use of radar-absorbing materials, advanced sensor suites, and the relocation of electronic-warfare systems inside the aircraft to reduce its radar signature. The most significant upgrade will be the addition of an internal weapons bay, scheduled for the early 2030s, modeled on stealth designs such as the F-35. The bay is expected to carry up to four Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles or precision-guided bombs, boosting both survivability and lethality.
Meanwhile, Block II upgrades will address propulsion and strike capabilities. A new domestically developed jet engine, valued at 86 billion won ($62 million), will replace the current U.S.-made GE F414 turbofan, reducing dependency on foreign suppliers. The Block II package will also deliver air-to-ground attack functions, targeted for completion by early 2027. Complementing these advances will be Hanwha Systems’ Active Electronically Scanned Array radar and the integration of loyal wingman unmanned systems, designed to extend the KF-21’s combat reach and effectiveness.
Through these phased enhancements, South Korea aims not only to secure the KF-21’s place in its air force for decades to come but also to position itself as a leader in advanced fighter technologies in the Asia-Pacific region.
