Breaking Boundaries: The Dynamic Integration of SPEAR Missiles with the KF-21 Boramae Fighter
Subsequent to an agreement formed in June 2023 between MBDA and Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI), a notable milestone was accomplished on October 20th, 2025, with the endorsement of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at the integration of the SPEAR Air-to-Ground missile onto the KF-21 Boramae jet fighter.
Revealed during Seoul ADEX 2025, this MoU represents an intensified partnership between MBDA and KAI, focusing on enhancing the KF-21’s precision-strike capabilities by fusing KAI’s cutting-edge fighter technology with MBDA’s expertise in sophisticated weapon systems.
The Korean KF-21 fighter aircraft, already equipped with the METEOR Air-to-Air missile, is poised to achieve enhanced air-to-ground functionality with the integration of the SPEAR. This latest solution from MBDA is engineered to deliver precise effects with minimal collateral impact, improved resilience for systems/weapons, and a substantial payload for extended operations. Powered by a turbojet engine and featuring a precision effects warhead along with a sophisticated multi-sensor seeker, the SPEAR missile is adept at engaging a diverse range of targets beyond the horizon, both on land and at sea.
Following the June 2023 agreement, this MoU further reinforces the strong collaboration between both organizations, who have shown dedication and shared aspirations to explore fresh possibilities for the integration of additional MBDA armaments onto KAI platforms.
