South Korea's military evolution from F-4 Phantoms to KF-21 Boramae

South Korea, once so economically strained that its citizens contributed funds to purchase American fighter jets for national defence, has transformed into a major global arms producer.

The nation, now a leading supplier of weapons to NATO, has shifted from relying on external support to developing its own advanced military technology, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

In the 1970s, South Korea's government raised money to acquire five American F-4 Phantoms, a symbol of their struggle against North Korea's more powerful military. Fast forward to today, South Korea has retired these Cold War-era jets, which had been in service for over 50 years, and is now focused on producing its own next-generation fighter aircraft.

The KF-21 Boramae, South Korea’s new homegrown jet, is set to begin mass production in 2026, aiming to offer a cost-effective alternative to the American F-35. This ambitious project underscores South Korea's significant leap from being a major arms purchaser to a designer and manufacturer of military aircraft.

South Korea's transformation is also reflected in its strategic alliances. The country is enhancing its defense and diplomatic ties with the United States and its allies in response to escalating threats from North Korea, China, and Russia. South Korea continues to operate American-made jets, including the F-5 and F-35, as well as jets developed jointly with the US.

A recent farewell flight in an F-4 Phantom, offered to select journalists, provided a poignant reminder of South Korea's journey. The F-4, which once symbolized South Korea’s commitment to securing air superiority, has been retired, leaving a legacy of its critical role in the country's military history.

As South Korea advances technologically and economically, its role in global defense and security has grown. Today, the nation not only leads in technological innovation but also contributes to international conflicts, such as providing support to Ukraine against Russian aggression. The departure of the F-4 Phantom marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in South Korea’s military evolution.