Bizhankook reports that South Korea’s next-generation fighter jet, the KF-21 Boramae, is taking shape with plans for three distinct variants: the KF-21 EA, EX, and SA. This diversification strategy aims to not only bolster South Korea’s own airpower but also unlock export potential in the global arms market.
Defense Acquisition Program Administration’s public work is used according to Korea Open Government License (KOGL) (KOGL Type 1 or KOGL Type 1), via Wikimedia Commons
Taking the two-seat KF-21B as its baseline, the EA variant will undergo modifications to accommodate a dedicated Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO) station in the rear cockpit. Three Electronic Attack (EA) devices and two Electronic intelligence (ESM) devices will be integrated into the aircraft, enabling the KF-21 EA to perform a critical escort jamming role. Similar to the U.S. Navy’s EA-18G Growler, the KF-21 EA will disrupt enemy ground-based air defense systems using its jamming technology, safeguarding friendly aircraft during missions. Additionally, the KF-21 EA will be equipped with anti-radiation missiles such as the AARGM-ER to suppress enemy air defense networks (SEAD).
The KF-21 EX variant represents the most ambitious iteration, targeting performance benchmarks that rival fifth-generation fighter jets. To achieve this goal, the KF-21 EX will incorporate a significant modification: an internal weapon bay (IWB). This advanced technology, currently limited to a select few high-performance aircraft, offers a significant advantage by minimizing the radar signature of the aircraft when weapons are stowed internally. This capability is crucial for achieving true fifth-generation stealth characteristics. The IWB on the KF-21 EX is expected to house four Meteor long-range air-to-air missiles or eight smaller air-to-ground munitions. Additionally, the KF-21 EX is envisioned as an integral part of the Next Air Combat System (NACS), a future network that leverages unmanned aerial vehicles and satellite data links.
The KF-21 SA caters to the specific needs of potential export customers. While the base specifications will likely closely resemble those of the Korean Air Force variant, the SA version allows for customization of weapons and internal equipment to meet individual country requirements. Negotiations with potential buyers like Indonesia are ongoing, but final configurations for export models remain undetermined.
While the unveiling of these variants signifies progress in the KF-21 program, significant hurdles remain. Development of all three variants is in its early stages, with additional research and funding required before full-scale development can commence. Kim Min-seok, a member of the Korea Defense Security Forum, emphasizes the extended timeline, stating: “All three versions are just beginning basic research on development feasibility. It will take more than 10 years to receive detailed design and development costs and proceed to full-scale development.”
The KF-21 EX variant faces particularly daunting challenges, particularly regarding the ambitious goal of achieving fifth-generation performance. Experts anticipate this upgraded variant may take over a decade to materialize. Furthermore, intense competition exists in the global market for existing fourth-generation fighters. Kim Min-seok underscores the urgency of developing the KF-21 EX: “In order to enhance the export competitiveness of our KF-21, the development of the KF-21 EX with 5th-generation performance needs to be started early.”
Mass production of the baseline KF-21 is slated to begin in 2026. However, South Korea recognizes the importance of continuous development to maintain a competitive edge. The KF-21 program’s diversification strategy, with the KF-21 EA, EX, and SA variants, reflects this commitment to innovation. This multi-faceted approach will strengthen South Korea’s air defense capabilities while simultaneously opening doors to lucrative export opportunities in the international arms market.
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