KF-21 Fighter Successfully Fires IRIS-T Missile for the First Time

The KF-21 fighter successfully fired the IRIS-T missile for the first time, marking a key milestone in Korea's 4.5th generation fighter program. This test confirms the integration and air-to-air capability of the IRIS-T on the KF-21.

The IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missile, also known as AIM-2000, has been successfully test-fired from Korea's KF-21 fighter, marking a significant milestone in the development of Korea's 4.5th generation indigenous fighter. This test was the first time the missile was fired as a guided weapon from the KF-21.

The test, conducted in May 2024, follows a series of successful evaluations of the IRIS-T on the KF-21. In May 2023, shortly after the aircraft's first flight in early 2023, an unguided missile was safely separated in flight, setting the stage for the recent guided test. During the latest test, the missile was designated by the onboard AESA radar and successfully engaged a target drone, demonstrating the fighter's initial air-to-air capability.

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Diehl Defence have been working together since 2017 to achieve this integration. Helmut Rauch, CEO of Diehl Defence, praised the collaboration, saying, "I congratulate KAI on their outstanding performance on the KF-21 development program. At Diehl Defence, we are proud to be part of this success story with our IRIS-T air-to-air missile."

The successful firing from the KF-21 is also a significant achievement for the IRIS-T program. The missile's integration into the KF-21 underscores its compatibility with both legacy and modern fighter aircraft. In February 2024, KAI and Diehl Defence agreed to start integrating the IRIS-T into KAI's FA-50. With the IRIS-T, both the KF-21 and FA-50 will be equipped for demanding missions.

The IRIS-T has already been integrated into major combat aircraft platforms, including the Panavia Tornado, Eurofighter Typhoon, JAS-39 Gripen, F-16, EF-18, and F-5. The system is in service or on order with several NATO countries, as well as Brazil, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa.

This milestone highlights the ongoing advancements in Korea's defense capabilities and the successful international collaboration between KAI and Diehl Defence.