According to a report from the military news site ‘Flight Global’, South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has decided to purchase an additional 20 KF-21 fighters from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), with deliveries expected to begin in 2028. The report states that DAPA and KAI signed a contract worth 2.4 trillion won (approximately 518 billion Taiwanese dollars) on June 26, which includes the purchase of 20 KF-21 fighters, as well as training, maintenance, and logistical support.

DAPA had previously procured 20 KF-21s last June, bringing the total to 40 aircraft. The first batch is expected to be delivered between 2026 and 2028, while the second batch will be delivered starting in 2028. The South Korean Air Force plans to phase out its aging F-4 Phantom and F-5 fighters with the domestically produced KF-21 to enhance its combat capabilities. Initially set to deliver 40 aircraft by 2028, this plan has been adjusted due to delays in evaluation progress, reducing the first order from 40 to 20. Further purchases will take place after the KF-21 completes initial operational testing and a series of related evaluations, with mass production beginning thereafter.

Additionally, U.S. defense reports indicate that Korea Aerospace Industries has won a 623 billion won (approximately 133 billion Taiwanese dollars) contract from DAPA to produce 80 F414 engines for the KF-21 by the end of 2028, ensuring timely delivery of the aircraft.