In a move underscoring growing defense ties, South Korea and the UAE tested the KF-21 Boramae fighter at Sacheon Air Base, following an April 2025 deal for broad defense collaboration. The advanced 4.5-generation aircraft has surpassed 1,300 of the 1,800 planned sorties for its Block 1 phase. South Korea is targeting first deliveries within two years to replace its legacy F-4 and F-5 jets. The UAE’s engagement hints at a potential purchase as it expands its modern combat jet fleet.
