South Korean fighter aircraft, the KF-21 Boramae could soon become an integral part of their defense strategy. It was developed in a joint venture between Indonesia and GE Aviation. GE Aviation supplies F414 engines to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, Saab JAS 39E/F Gripens and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. The aircraft is expected to fly by 2026. It will eventually replace the 60 multirole F-15K Slam Eagles and more F-16C/Ds. There are also a lot of Vietnam-era F-4E Phantoms that are currently serving with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF).
The 4.5-generation korean fighter plane is currently undergoing extensive flight testing as it builds up its prototype fleet. It has been described by the ROKAF as a "supersonic, twin-engine aircraft."
It is capable of striking targets at a distance with a top speed up to 2,200 km/h. It will also be capable of carrying air to-air missiles, such as Meteor beyond the visual range air-to–air rockets and precision-guided explosive bombs.
The standoff cruiser is another armament option that the korean fighter could use. Seoul plans on developing it to be used with its own AESA radar. This is a major development as it would give the korean fighter a distinct advantage in its fights against North Korea, and any other adversary who may wish to strike it from ground or air-based weapon systems.
A new manned-unmanned teaming technology will also be fitted to the korean aircraft. This capability could be available as early 2022. The korean fighter would be able to control drones in real time and receive imagery of the enemy's location. It will also have the ability to engage targets close to its territory.
ARMMENT
A variety of infrared search and track sensors have been fitted to the South Korean fighter, including an active electronically scan radar and an infrared detector. The aircraft has also been equipped with a radio frequency-jammer to disrupt signals so that it is not detected by surface or airborne radars.
This important development will allow the korean fighters to be used with stealthy drones. It will be able track and identify the target, launch the drone and payload using coordinates supplied by the korean fighter.
ELECTRONICS
The korean plane is equipped with advanced electronics. This capability will give the korean aircraft an edge in its fight against North Korea and any other enemy that might wish to target it via ground or air-based missile systems. The fighter can also carry out reconnaissance and attack targets within close quarters.
ENGINES
The korean aircraft is powered by two GE Aerospace F414 GE Aerospace engines. These engines have also been used in the predecessor to the korean fighter, the FA-50 light air-attack fighter. These engines are capable of producing a maximum power rating exceeding 1.2 megawatts.