South Korea's new fighter plane, the KF-21 Boramae, carried out its first in-flight refueling test (REVO) on Tuesday (19). The test flights were carried out with the support of an Airbus A330 MRTT tanker from the South Korean Air Force (ROKAF).
According to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the body that manages the country's military programs, the test was carried out in the South Sea with the fifth of six KF-21 prototypes. The aircraft successfully completes REVO, receiving fuel from the KC-330 via the refueling boom.
In a note, DAPA says that “the objective was to evaluate the influence and control characteristics of the KF-21 and confirm aerial refueling functions, such as safe connection and separation with the tanker and fuel transfer.” In the next tests, which will continue until March 2025, the team will evaluate refueling operations at different altitudes and speeds.
The tests began on 08/03, with a preliminary inspection of the control characteristics between the A330 refueling device and the KF-21 receptacle. Located on the back of the fighter, this is the point where the boom must be fitted to transfer fuel.
“The success of this refueling flight test is significant in that it can expand the operational radius and operating time of the KF-21, contributing to ensuring the Air Force’s long-distance operational capabilities, as well as strengthening its power. military", Noh said. Jiman, head of the Korea Fighter Program at DAPA.
This is the latest milestone achieved by the KF-21, the first fighter aircraft completely designed by South Korea. The aircraft is the result of the KF-X project and is expected to replace the old F-4 Phantom II and F-5 Tiger II In the next years. DAPA wants to sign a contract to start production of the aircraft, which should only come into operation in 2026.
Although it has a design similar to stealth jets, such as the F-35 Lightning II and the US F-22 Raptor, South Korea says the KF-21 is a 4.5 generation fighter. The plane incorporates stealth elements into its design, but carries its weapons on hangers on the wings and fuselage, which drastically increases its radar return. The engines are GE Aviation's F414, the same ones used in the SAAB JAS 39E/F Gripen and the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Martin-Baker produces the Mk.18 ejection seats.
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