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| Foto: jet figter KF-21 Boramae Indonesia x Korea Selatan |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM,the KF-21 Boramae is a 4.5-generation fighter jet developed by South Korea and Indonesia. This aircraft is designed with various sophisticated and cutting-edge technologies, making it one of the most promising fighter jets in its class. Here are some of its main advanced features:
Semi-Stealth (Stealth-Optimized) Design Although not a full fifth-generation stealth fighter (for example, it doesn't yet have internal weapon bays), the KF-21 is designed with stealth principles adapted from the F-22 and F-35. Its sleek aerodynamic shape and canted tailfins help reduce its Radar Cross-Section (RCS), making it harder to detect by enemy radar compared to previous generation fighter jets.
AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) Radar,This is one of the most prominent features of the KF-21. The AESA radar, independently developed by Hanwha Systems (with technical assistance from Elta Systems and Saab for software), provides highly advanced target detection and tracking capabilities. AESA radar allows for wider area scanning, simultaneous tracking of multiple targets, and has better resistance to electronic countermeasures (ECM).
Advanced Avionics Full Digital Cockpit (Glass Cockpit): Equipped with advanced Multi-Function Displays (MFDs) from Hanwha Systems that provide comprehensive flight and mission information to the pilot.
Helmet-Mounted Display (HMD): Allows pilots to view flight and target information directly on their helmets, enhancing situational awareness.
Electro-Optical Targeting Pod (EO TGP): For accurate enemy identification and targeting.
Electronic Warfare Systems: Including the ALQ-200K Radio Frequency Jammer (RF Jammer) developed by LIG Nex1 to protect the aircraft from enemy threats.
Advanced Datalink From LIG Nex1 for efficient communication and data sharing with other units.
The KF-21 is powered by two General Electric F414-GE-400K engines (locally produced by Hanwha Aerospace under license). These afterburning turbofan engines each produce over 22,000 lbf of thrust (with afterburner), giving the KF-21 strong performance and agility in both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. Its maximum speed can reach Mach 1.81.
Multirole Capability and Comprehensive Armament:
The KF-21 is designed as a multirole fighter capable of performing various missions:
1.Air Superiority: Equipped with a 20mm M61A2 Vulcan gatling cannon and various modern air-to-air missiles such as MBDA Meteor, AIM-120 AMRAAM, Diehl IRIS-T, and AIM-9X Sidewinder.
2.Air-to-Ground Attack: Capable of carrying various air-to-ground missiles like Taurus KEPD 350, AGM-65, as well as conventional bombs (Mk.81/82/83/84) and precision-guided munitions (JDAM, GBU-39/B SDB, CBU-105 WCMD, GBU-12 LGB, KGGB).
3.Anti-Ship: Can be armed with anti-ship missiles such as the AGM-84 Harpoon.
The aircraft has 10 hardpoints for carrying external weapons and pods.
Phased Development (Block System)
The KF-21 will be developed in several blocks:
• Block 1: Focuses on air superiority capabilities.
• Block 2: Will have enhanced capabilities for multirole roles, including the integration of more advanced air-to-ground weapons (such as the planned MBDA Brimstone and SPEAR 3).
• Block 3: Will focus on improved stealth capabilities and possibly the integration of internal weapon bays.
Strategic Significance
The KF-21 Boramae is not just an advanced fighter jet, but also a symbol of South Korea's technological independence and aerospace industry advancement. This project is also a significant collaboration with Indonesia, involving technology transfer and joint development.
Overall, the KF-21 Boramae is a highly capable 4.5-generation fighter jet, combining advanced avionics and sensor technology, high maneuverability, and diverse armament, making it a crucial asset for any air force that operates it.