South Korea has awarded Hanwha Aerospace a contract worth 623.2 billion Korean won ($460.7 million) to produce propulsion systems for the KF-21 Boramae combat aircraft. The agreement involves domestic manufacturing of 80 F414 engines under license, as well as comprehensive logistics and on-site support.
With this latest deal, the nation’s total spending on KF-21 engine development reaches 1.18 trillion won ($872.7 million). Hanwha Aerospace is expected to complete engine deliveries by the end of 2028. The engines will power over 60 jets currently planned for production.
The KF-21 program, initiated as a domestic alternative to aging fighter platforms, is progressing in partnership with Korea Aerospace Industries. Up to 120 aircraft are set to be produced by the early 2030s, with initial deliveries beginning between 2026 and 2027.
