Overview

• DAPA has approved a revised development plan that moves KF-21 air-to-ground weapons tests to the first half of 2027 from late 2028.
• Block II will add strike and reconnaissance capabilities, with the first ground-attack–configured aircraft set to arrive in early 2027 following Block I deliveries in late 2026.
• Korea Aerospace Industries holds a contract to produce 40 KF-21 fighters for the Republic of Korea Air Force, which plans to induct about 120 jets by 2032.
• Defense journalist YoungHak Lee has reported development of an air-launched ballistic missile for the KF-21, proposing Mach 5–10 speeds and a 500–1,000 km range, though those claims remain unconfirmed.
• The Defence Acquisition Program Promotion Committee also advanced the MOH II maritime helicopter programme, earmarking over W3 trillion through 2032 for new anti-submarine rotorcraft as part of a coordinated modernization drive.