The Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) KF-21 fighter might soon join the long-running Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) competition in the Philippines. Manila has issued a request for information (RFI) about the twin-engined aircraft, and KAI is preparing its response. This was confirmed by Shin Dong Hak, KAI’s vice president of international business development, during the Farnborough Air Show on July 30, 2024.
According to a report from FlightGlobal, the Philippines’ MRF competition has been active for several years, with the Lockheed Martin F-16 and Saab Gripen as the primary contenders. The addition of the KF-21 could introduce a new dynamic to the competition. The Philippines is already a significant market for KAI, as the country operates 12 FA-50 jets and plans to acquire 12 more.
Shin stated, “They issued an RFI about the KF-21 and we are preparing our response now.” The KF-21, previously designated as KFX, has progressed steadily since its first flight in 2022. KAI has been actively conducting flight tests, and the fifth KF-21 prototype recently completed its first flight.
Expanding Market Interest
Beyond the Philippines, KAI is exploring opportunities for the KF-21 in other regions. Shin mentioned “very deep discussions” with a country in the Middle East, although he did not specify which one. KAI has already found success in the region, with the Iraqi Air Force operating 24 T-50IQ advanced jet trainers.
Indonesia is another potential market for the KF-21. Jakarta is a junior partner in the KF-21 program and intends to acquire a variant designated as IFX. However, Indonesia’s commitment has been uncertain due to delays in development payments and efforts to reduce financial obligations. Additionally, South Korean counterintelligence officials are investigating the alleged theft of KF-21 data by Indonesian engineers.
Production and Future Plans
Despite these challenges, KAI plans to produce IFX units between 2025 and 2029, with Indonesian Aerospace set to manufacture the KF-21 locally. Mass production of the KF-21 began in early July, and the aircraft is expected to join the Republic of Korea Air Force in late 2026.
“We are preparing some agreements between the two governments and two companies,” Shin said, emphasizing ongoing negotiations to solidify these plans.
Indonesia has also shown interest in other fighter jets, including orders for 42 Dassault Rafales and a memorandum of understanding to purchase up to 24 Boeing F-15EX fighters. Shin acknowledged the competitive landscape, stating, “It’s not going to be easy. Is there any room [for Indonesia] to procure new aircraft like the KF-21? But we still push.”
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