South Korea prepares the KF-X (aka KF-21) fighter, which has been in development for 22 years, for its first flight (video)

South Korea is preparing its own KF-X fighter for its first flight.

What we know

The War Zone reported this by publishing a video of a prototype of the aircraft at the manufacturer's factory, Korea Aerospace Industries. The KF-X is currently being tested on the runway. Usually such tests are done before the first flight. It is rumored that it will take place as early as July 22.

The tests of the plane should last until 2026. After that South Korea plans to begin mass production of the new item. If everything goes according to plan, KF-X will enter into military service in 2029. 

Aircraft features

KF-X (final name KF-21) is a Korean fighter aircraft the development of which began back in 2001. There are many scandals and spy stories associated with the plane. Initially KF-X was planned as a fifth generation fighter with capabilities of F-22 and dimensions of F-16. But during development the requirements for KF-X were lowered. As a result it became a 4.5 generation aircraft. It is 13 meters long and 4.5 meters high. 

Source: War Zone, Express Defense

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