Introduction to the DD Newsletter
The DD Newsletter provides weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) Unveils the KF-21EX Fighter
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has released a concept artwork of the refined version of its KF-21 fighter, now known as the KF-21EX. The new design features internal weapons carriage, which is a distinguishing feature of the aircraft. This is part of an effort to make the KF-21 more survivable in the face of ever more capable air defense systems. The KF-21EX will not offer the same level of low observability as the F-35, which is also operated by South Korea.
Key Features of the KF-21EX
The KF-21EX features a new sensor below the nose, which performs the same functions as the Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) found on the F-35. The aircraft also has a reprofiled canopy, a radome with reduced radar cross-section, an upgraded electronic warfare suite, and new conformal antennas. KAI has also announced plans to include advanced situational awareness systems and undisclosed “survivability technologies” in the KF-21EX.
Internal Weapons Carriage
The KF-21EX will carry internal weapons, including 2,000-pound-class guided bombs, such as the GBU-31 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM). The aircraft may also carry the U.S.-made GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) and the locally made Air-Launched Effects (ALE). Air-to-air weapons planned for the KF-21EX include the LIG Nex1 Long-Range Air-To-Air Missile (LRAAM) and the MBDA Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile.
Operation with ‘Loyal Wingman’ Drones
The KF-21EX is designed to operate alongside ‘loyal wingman’ drones, such as the Low Observable Unmanned Wingman System (LOWUS). The crewed fighter will serve as an escort jammer, while the drones act as stand-in jammers. The KF-21EX will share real-time sensor tracks with the drones, providing for distributed targeting and threat analysis.
Development and Production
The KF-21EX is part of an effort to refine the KF-21, with the Block 3 configuration expected to include a broader application of low-observable characteristics. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) plans to introduce 40 KF-21s by 2028 and have a full fleet of 120 aircraft deployed by 2032. It is unclear whether the ROKAF wants to order the KF-21EX on top of these numbers or switch some of the previously planned buys to the more advanced model.
Export Prospects
The KF-21EX could be a tempting prospect for export customers, particularly when offered with a complementary ‘loyal wingman’ drone. South Korea is an increasingly major player on the global arms market, having already won several high-profile orders for its FA-50 light combat aircraft. The KF-21EX offers the advantages of domestic production, a considerable degree of control over further enhancements, and the possibility of lucrative exports.