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An Indonesian Air Force pilot has flown front seat in a KF-21 Boramae prototype fighter aircraft during a recent test in South Korea.
Colonel Ferrel Rigonald of the Indonesian Air Force undertook the successful maiden flight with a test pilot at Sacheon Air Base on 27 June.
The flight is considered to be a major milestone of defence cooperation between Indonesia and South Korea
“In this mission, Colonel Ferrel was accompanied by a test pilot from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), Koh-hwi Seok, who occupied the back seat. They took off at 09:45 local time and performed a series of test manoeuvres at an altitude of 20,000 feet for approximately one hour. The flight went smoothly and successfully, marking Indonesia’s direct contribution to the testing and development process of the 4.5 generation fighter aircraft,” aa statement from Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense said (translated).
“The participation of Indonesian Air Force pilots in the flight test phase not only reflects the transfer of technology and the improvement of the competence of Indonesian defence human resources but also becomes a strong symbol of the spirit of strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea in the KF-21/IF-X fighter aircraft development program.
“This momentum confirms the joint commitment of both countries to continue the collaboration in the development of high technology in the defence sector, which is in line with Indonesia’s vision in building the independence of the national defence industry.
“Indonesia’s active participation in the KF-21 program also strengthens Indonesia’s position as a major partner in the development of future defence platforms.”
The Korea Aerospace Industries KF-21 Boramae fighter program is expected to supply fighter aircraft to the South Korean Air Force.
Indonesia is currently pushing to modernise its defence equipment and strengthen national defence capabilities in response to worsening global relations in the Indo-Pacific region.
