ASIATODAY.ID, SACHEON – A historic moment marked a new chapter in the strategic defense partnership between Indonesia and South Korea, as an Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) pilot, Colonel Pnb Ferrel Rigonald, successfully flew the prototype of the KF-21 Boramae, a 4.5-generation fighter jet developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI).
The test flight took place on Friday, June 27, 2025, at Sacheon Air Base, South Korea. Colonel Ferrel occupied the front seat of the cockpit, accompanied by KAI test pilot Koh Hwi Seok in the rear seat. They took off at 9:45 AM local time, reached an altitude of 20,000 feet, and conducted a series of aerial maneuvers during the one-hour flight. The mission was completed smoothly and successfully.
The active involvement of an Indonesian pilot in the KF-21 test flight reflects significant technology transfer, enhanced human resource capabilities, and a deepening strategic partnership between Indonesia and South Korea. More than a symbolic gesture, it confirms Indonesia’s role as an active contributor to the development of advanced military aviation technology.
Indonesia’s participation in the KF-21/IF-X fighter jet program aligns with its broader vision of achieving self-reliance in defense industry capabilities, while also expanding the operational expertise of its air force personnel with state-of-the-art systems.
Commitment to Defense Modernization
The Indonesian Ministry of Defense welcomed this achievement as a tangible step toward defense modernization through innovation and international collaboration. The KF-21 project stands as a clear example of how Indonesia is working to bolster its strategic position in the region by developing a high-tech, adaptive defense capability. (AT Network)
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