South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has announced plans to develop a long-range, air-launched cruise missile (ALCM), to be mounted on the country’s KF-21 fighter.
The ALCM is anticipated to be capable of hitting a target up to 500 kilometers away with accuracy, and will become a key weapon for the KF-21. It is a new endeavor for South Korea, but research has confirmed the feasibility of the project. The ALCM is expected to be completed by 2028. DAPA expects to spend $145 million for the development of the missile.
The range of the missile is classified but it will be similar to the Taurus missile that South Korea is using on its F-15K fighters.
DAPA hopes that the missile will strengthen South Korea’s three-axis defense system against North Korea’s growing nuclear and missile threats. The three axes refer to the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation operational plan, the Kill Chain pre-emptive strike platform, and the Korea Air and Missile Defense system.
It also hopes that the ALCM will boost the export competitiveness of the KF-21 fighter.
For more information, hit the Source below