[유용원의 군사세계] 순항 중인 한국형 전투기 개발첫 한국형 전투기 KF-21의 마지막 시제기(試製機)인 6호기가 28일 오후 첫 비행에 성공했......
bemil.chosun.com
Article on Bemil Chosen taking about KF-21 6th prototype flight, which despite the odds including Covid situation, still on track to finish RnD development by 2025 and begin initial production by 2026.
The article also talk about Poland Interest on joining KF-21 program. Understandable some Korean Journalist and Defense Forums enthusiasts even talk for Poland to replace Indonesia. Indonesia procurement of Rafale seems touching nerve in ROK, as they see Indonesia keep delaying payment, while at the same time willing to put billions Euros on Rafale. Even procure Mirage 2K at the amount which basically can cover the RnD overdues.
However seems they're forgetting that KFX actually being design for 1 Senior Partner (which is ROK) and 2 Junior Partners (which so far only Indonesia take one slot). The 20% share now hold by KAI actually being reserve for another Junior Partner, this if Poland want to join in, then basically they can take over that KAI slot. This can happen regardless on Indonesian payment and intentions.
[양낙규의 Defence Club]KF-21, 내년 예산 ‘첩첩산중’…생산 멀어지나
military.asiae.co.kr
Another defense website in ROK also shown question on Indonesia real intention toward its obligation on the program. Still it is also talk about Indonesian intention per contract which will use the 5th proto as the benchmark on developing Indonesian slightly alter own version.
Something that even the tweeter guy as so call Indonesia defense insider acknowledged that the facilities for manufacturing and assembly Indonesian version of KF-21 (the so call IF-21) is far from ready. Something which I already put several times already in this thread.
Well it is not Euro OEM project, thus not part of his company commission. Thus he got nothing to lose to shown potential rival program still far from ready.
As usual in Indonesia this administration seems keen to pass the responsibility to next administration. Something that even Prabowo wins still not means real commitment on the program continues. Let alone if the winner the other potential two candidates else.
