KAI signs $1.4bn deal with DAPA to mass produce 20 KF-21 fighter jets

[Courtesy of KAI]

Korea Aerospace Industries Ltd. (KAI) has signed a 1.96 trillion won ($1.4 billion) deal with the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) to mass produce KF-21 fighter jets.

According to KAI on Tuesday, it signed the deal with DAPA, which includes the mass production of 20 KF-21 units, along with technical manuals, training, and logistical support. Delivery is set to begin in 2026.

The KF-21, currently about 80 percent developed, has demonstrated outstanding performance and stability through initial test evaluations.

The KF-21 will replace the recently retired F-4 and the soon-to-be-retired F-5 fighters, protecting South Korean airspace.

The KF-21 began its first test flight with a prototype in July 2022 and has since undergone flight testing. In March, it successfully performed aerial refueling, securing long-range operational capability, and conducted air-to-air Meteor missile launches.

It has also enhanced its mission capabilities by improving altitude, speed, and maneuverability, boosting overall combat readiness.

The Korean Air Force has been carrying out the Korean Fighter eXperimental (KF-X) project to replace its aging F-4 and F-5 fighters and develop a 4.5-generation fighter suitable for future battlefield operations. The project, which started in 2015, spans 10 years and 6 months.

Meanwhile, Hanwha Aerospace Co. announced on the same day that it signed a 556.2 billion won deal with DAPA to supply engines for the initial mass production of the KF-21. Hanwha Aerospace will deliver over 40 F414 engines and spare modules for the KF-21.

Hanwha Systems Co. also signed a mass production contract with DAPA to supply AESA radar for the KF-21, valued at about 110 billion won, with supply set to begin in August 2025.