What Happened
Seoul Explores Advanced Airpower Concepts Beyond KF-21
South Korea has launched a conceptual study for a sixth-generation stealth fighter, building on the completion of its KF-21 Boramae development program. The study, commissioned by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, explores advanced airpower concepts including artificial intelligence, broadband stealth, internal weapons bays, and manned-unmanned teaming. The initiative aims to determine the operational requirements for a next-generation fighter, with a focus on survivability, distributed sensors, and networked warfare. According to Defence Security Asia, the study will examine various configurations, including adaptive-cycle engines and advanced propulsion systems, before a final decision is made on the development of a new fighter.