The United Arab Emirates is considering the acquisition of South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae multirole fighter following a recent high-profile demonstration flight at Sacheon Air Base.
During the event, UAE Deputy Minister of Defence Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi joined Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) Chief of Staff General Lee Yeon-su for a “friendship flight” showcasing the KF-21’s performance. General Lee piloted a FA-50 light combat aircraft, while Al Alawi occupied the rear seat of the KF-21 to assess its handling, avionics, and cockpit layout.
General Lee Yeon-su, Chief of Staff of the Republic of Korea Air Force with UAE's Deputy Minister of Defence, Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi after the flight.
The demonstration followed an April 2025 Letter of Intent signed between the two countries for cooperation on the KF-21 program. The agreement grants UAE officers access to flight trials, operational testing, and ROKAF bases, and sets a schedule for biannual defence meetings to explore joint development opportunities.
The UAE could potentially replace Indonesia as a development partner if Jakarta’s participation declines due to funding issues. The KF-21, first flown in July 2022, is a 4.5-generation fighter positioned between fourth-generation aircraft like the F-16 and fifth-generation designs such as the F-35. It features reduced radar cross-section shaping, an AESA radar developed by Hanwha Systems, and compatibility with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions.
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) is developing multiple variants, including electronic attack and export-focused models. Powered by two General Electric F414 engines, the KF-21 can reach Mach 1.8 and operate effectively in high-temperature, high-altitude environments such as the Gulf.
For the UAE, the aircraft offers an alternative procurement route outside traditional U.S. and European suppliers, potentially avoiding restrictive export conditions. The program also includes technology transfer and local assembly options, which could support domestic aerospace capabilities.
The UAE currently operates F-16E/F Block 60 Desert Falcons and Rafale F4 fighters. A KF-21 purchase would diversify its fleet while reinforcing existing defence cooperation with South Korea, which already includes the KM-SAM Block II air defence system.
A deal would mark a significant entry for South Korea into the Gulf’s high-value fighter market, traditionally dominated by U.S., European, and Russian suppliers. Analysts suggest it could also influence other Gulf states to explore non-traditional defence partnerships.
While no contract has been signed, the August demonstration signals growing military and industrial ties between Abu Dhabi and Seoul.
