The KF-21, a 4.5 generation fighter jet developed by South Korea, has successfully demonstrated its capabilities in a test flight, including supersonic flight and the launching of a short-range air-to-air missile. The jet, which has been provisionally deemed suitable for combat, will begin mass production next year.
Indonesia, a joint development partner of the KF-21, is currently overdue on its share of the development costs. Despite this, the country has pledged to pay its share in 2026. However, progress on payment has been slow due to budget shortages.
Poland has also shown interest in participating in the KF-21 project, with plans being discussed for it to pay Indonesia's outstanding debt and take a stake in the project. The first phase of the KF-21's development, which aims to complete the air-to-air weapon, is currently underway with the goal of completion in 2026.
1. The KF-21 is a fighter jet that has been test-flown up to CJ Unit 6 and has been deemed provisionally suitable for combat use. Mass production is planned to start next year.
2. Indonesia is a participant in the development of the KF-21. The country has covered the entire development cost from the start, with a contract to cover about 20%, or about 1.7 trillion won.
3. Indonesia has been overdue on its share of over 800 billion won. The country has not kept its promise to notify how to pay the arrears by the end of the previous month.
4. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration has responded to Indonesia's non-payment of contributions by stating that they will come up with a plan and will continue to work with government companies.
5. The media reported that the Indonesian Minister of National Defense announced that Korea plans to pay its share for the KF-21.
6. The first phase of development of the KF-21, a Korean fighter capable of launching air-to-air missiles alone, is currently underway with the goal of completion in 2026.
7. Poland has expressed its intention to participate in the KF-21 project. The participation period is likely to begin in 2026.
8. The KF-21 is now entering the full-fledged stage of acquiring air combat capabilities. The key is to link the target information captured by the radar with the weapon system.
9. The KF-21 has been judged provisionally suitable for combat by the defense industry. Preparations for the first production of the KF-21 will begin next year.
10. The KF-21 is expected to undergo additional verification such as aerial refueling and guided launch of air-to-air missiles in the future. It is expected to be the first delivery to the Air Force after receiving a final determination of suitability for combat in 2026.