ROK-based Hanwha Aerospace has unveiled the turbofan engine, which will bring later batches of KF-21 fighter jets to the 5th Generation during FIA2024. Hanwha Aerospace wants the engine to power the KF-21 Boramae fighter jet in a future tranche, which may provide a supercruise capability that the current F414-400K doesn’t. TurfDef learned the supercruise capability is considered for the KF-21 Block III, but no decision has been made about this capacity. The supercruise capability means flying at supersonic speeds without an afterburner. The wet thrust dramatically reduces the aircraft’s operational range and increases its IR signature.
TurDef has learned that the engine is planned to be used in the third batch of KF-21 fighters. The engine’s frame is based on the F414 turbofan of GE Aerospace, but the core has been reworked from the ground up for better performance. According to Hanwha Aerospace officials’ statement to TurDef, the new core will provide “a meaningful increase” both in thrust and efficiency. Compared to F414, the engine has a different compressor and turbine section, which are pivotal in providing the stated improvements. The engine will lack transvectors.
The later batches of KF-21 Boramae are planned to be fifth-generation standard, which requires features like internal weapon bays. KAI displays the other planned capability for KF-21 Boramae, MUM-T, with an unmanned fighter and a smaller remote carrier UAV designated AAP commanded by the fighter as “Next Generation” capability.
TurDef has also learned that this concept is being discussed in negotiations between the Korean Air Force RoCAF and KAI, but nothing is substantial. In case the airframe of KF-21 and its engine reaches 5th generation capacity, the presented MUM-T capacity will bring the fighter into 6th generation one.
