Hanwha Aerospace has been awarded a contract to deliver propulsion systems for the KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s domestically developed fifth-generation fighter.
The deal, worth 623.2 billion Korean won ($460.7 million), includes 80 GE F414 engines to be locally produced at Hanwha’s Changwon facility under a licensing agreement. The package also provides for logistics support, sustainment services, and on-site operational assistance.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the engines will be delivered to the country’s defense acquisition agency by December 2028.
With this contract, South Korea’s total spending on KF-21 propulsion systems reaches 1.18 trillion won ($872.7 million), securing engines for over 60 aircraft.
Hanwha highlighted that its advanced aerospace technology will ensure on-schedule engine deliveries while also supporting future propulsion system advancements for defense applications.
South Korea introduced the KF-21 project in 2015 to phase out its aging F-4 Phantom II and F-5 fighter jets. The program, in partnership with Korea Aerospace Industries, targets production of up to 120 fighters by the early 2030s, with initial deliveries starting between 2026 and 2027.
