The Republic of Korea may reduce the first batch of KF-21 Boramae fighter jets from 40 to 20 aircraft

The State Defence Research Agency of the Republic of Korea proposes to reduce the size of the first batch of KF-21 Boramae fighters. This is reported by Yonhap News Agency.

Here's What We Know

The Korea Institute for Defence Analysis submitted a feasibility study for the project in a closed-door meeting this week. This is the last mandatory step to secure funding for the production launch.

Experts suggest halving the size of the first batch, i.e. from 40 to 20 fighter jets. This is due to the uncertainty over the project, which was launched in 2015. The cost of the programme is estimated at nearly $6.6 billion.

The KF-21 Boramae is South Korea's Generation 4.5 fighter aircraft. It is designed to replace the F-4 and F-5 aircraft. The Republic of Korea wants to start production next year, begin deliveries two years later and deploy 120 aircraft by 2032.

Source: Yonhap