# KF-21

Seoul and Abu Dhabi Explore Joint KF-21EX Project — A Test of South Korea’s Bid to Break Western Weapon Monopolies

South Korea and the UAE signed a defence cooperation memorandum that opens the door to jointly developing a stealth‑enhanced KF-21EX fighter. The deal reflects the UAE’s desire to diversify weapon suppliers and Seoul’s ambition to break into higher tiers of the global fighter market, but the project faces major technical, export-control and competitive hurdles.

iMil2026年2月7日 00:50

#KF-21#KF-21EX#South Korea

Steel bridge in Yokohama with Ferris wheel and skyscraper in view.

World

South Korea Clears Development Tests of KF-21 Fighter, Mass Production Set to Begin This Year

South Korea's KF-21 fighter has completed its development flight tests and is slated for production deliveries in the second half of the year, DAPA announced. The milestone strengthens Seoul's aerospace industry and defense capabilities but still leaves practical challenges—certification, sustainment and integration—to be resolved before the jet significantly alters regional force balances.

iMil2026年1月17日 04:50

#KF-21#South Korea#DAPA