Aircraft comparison

Comparison between the KF-21 Boramae and TFX Kaan

The KF-21 Boramae and the TFX Kaan represent two prominent contenders in the realm of advanced fighter aircraft development. Both aircraft are envisioned to play significant roles in their respective nation’s air forces, offering cutting-edge capabilities and technologies tailored to modern combat environments.

In this article, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison between two cutting-edge fighter aircraft. Showcasing a formidable presence in the skies and a key player in the evolving landscape of global military aviation.

The KF-21 Boramae, is a fifth-generation multi-role fighter aircraft. Developed by the Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). In April 2021, the inaugural prototype of the KF-21 Boramae was successfully finalized and revealed to the public. Subsequently, on the 19th of July 2022, the aircraft underwent its maiden test flight, marking a crucial milestone in its development. The commencement of manufacturing is slated for the year 2026.

The TAI Kaan, also referred to as TF-X, represents a stealthy, twin-engine, all-weather air superiority fighter under development by Turkish Aerospace Industries. Following successful taxi and ground tests conducted on March 16, 2023, the prototype was ceremoniously unveiled just two days later. On February 21, 2024, the inaugural flight of Kaan took place. TAI released a video showcasing a KAAN fighter jet ascending into the sky and subsequently landing back at the Mürted Airfield Command located in northern Ankara.

The KF-21 Boramae and the TAI TF-X, both being fifth-generation multi-role fighter aircraft, showcase remarkable advancements in aerospace technology. Let’s compare these two formidable fighters.

Beginning with their dimensions, the KF-21 boasts a length of 16.9 meters. whereas the TF-X is slightly larger, with a length of 21 meters.

The KF-21 has a wingspan of 11.2 meters, and a height of 4.7 meters. On the other hand, the TF-X measures slightly larger wingspan of 14 meters, and a height of 6 meters.

In terms of payload and operational flexibility, the KF-21 offers a maximum takeoff weight of 25,600 kg (56,400 lb).Conversely, the TF-X boasts a slightly higher maximum takeoff weight of 27,215 kg (60,000 lb), potentially allowing for increased armament and fuel carriage. This could translate to extended mission durations or enhanced combat capabilities, depending on operational requirements.

The KF-21 is equipped with two General Electric F414-GE-400K turbofans, capable of generating 57.8 kN of thrust. In comparison, the TF-X utilizes two General Electric F110-GE-129 Turbofans, producing 76.31 kN of thrust, potentially providing slightly higher performance capabilities.

Regarding performance, both aircraft demonstrate impressive capabilities. The KF-21 achieves a maximum speed of Mach 1.81, while the TF-X closely matches this with a maximum speed of Mach 1.8.

“The KF-21 boasts an impressive service ceiling of 64,961 feet (19,800 meters), surpassing the TF-X’s service ceiling of 55,000 feet (17,000 meters). This makes the KF-21 capable of operating at higher altitudes, potentially offering advantages in various mission scenarios.

KF-21 is equipped with state-of-the-art features such as an AESA radar, advanced avionics, and precision weaponry. Boasting 10 hardpoints for weapons deployment, high maneuverability, enhanced survivability, and a configuration with single tandem aircraft seats, the KF-21 ensures high operational efficiency in diverse mission scenarios.

Anticipated to integrate cutting-edge technologies, including a next-generation active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar system, sophisticated communications systems, and superior electronic warfare capabilities, the KAAN heralds a new era in Turkish military aviation. Advanced stealth features such as radar-absorbing materials and state-of-the-art coatings contribute to its reduced radar cross-section, enhancing its survivability in contested environments.

According to the report, UAE’s Economic Council had sent a letter to South Korea’s Office of National Security explaining Abu Dhabi’s desire for direct cooperation on the development of the KF-21. Surprisingly, the letter allegedly requested that Abu Dhabi replace Indonesia’s investment in the program.

TAI, the lead contractor for the KAAN fifth-generation fighter jet development programme, plans to supply 20 KAAN Block 10 fighter jets to the Turkish Air Force by 2028 after taxi trials conclude in March. With an eye towards the future, the second prototype (P1), which will cover the full flight envelope and serve as a closer approximation to the intended production aircraft, is slated for takeoff in 2025. The anticipated third aircraft flight in 2026 and the delivery of follow-on blocks by 2034 are among the upcoming benchmarks.

Aircraft comparison

Comparison of the Indian built Tejas MK1A vs South korean FA 50

Today, we’ll explore two remarkable light combat aircraft: the Tejas MK1A and the FA-50 Golden Eagle. Both fighters are designed for versatility, making them ideal for various missions, from air-to-air combat to ground support.

The Tejas MK1A, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India, and the FA-50, a product of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), are both advanced aircraft equipped with modern technology and features.

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In this Article, we will compare these two fighters in terms of their specifications, performance, capabilities, and roles in modern air forces. Let’s dive in and see how they stack up against each other!

Tejas is the second supersonic combat aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), following the HF-24 Marut. It took its first flight in 2001 and was inducted into service with the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2015. Currently, Tejas holds the distinction of being the smallest and lightest aircraft in its class of supersonic combat jets.

On the other hand, the FA-50 is South Korea’s first indigenous supersonic aircraft and is one of the few supersonic trainers in the world. Development of the T-50 began in the late 1990s, with its maiden flight taking place in 2002.

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The FA-50 boasts a higher production rate compared to the Tejas. Over the past 15 years, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has produced nearly 200 variants of the FA-50, while Tejas has seen a lower production output.

In terms of international sales, the FA-50 is actively in service with multiple countries, including Indonesia, Iraq, the Philippines, Thailand, and Poland. Notably, Malaysia opted for the FA-50 over the Tejas, citing the FA-50’s strong service record as a key factor in their decision.

Here’s a SPECIFICATION of the Tejas and FA-50

Length: The Tejas measures 13.2 m (43 ft 4 in), making it slightly longer than the FA-50, which is 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in).

Max Takeoff Weight: The Tejas has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,500 kg (29,762 lb), compared to the FA-50’s lighter weight of 10,722 kg (23,638 lb).

Fuel Capacity: The Tejas has an internal fuel capacity of 3,060 liters (810 US gallons), while the FA-50 has a slightly lower internal fuel capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons).

Powerplant: Both aircraft are powered by General Electric F404 turbofan engines, but the Tejas utilizes the F404-GE-IN20 variant with 48.9 kN (11,000 lbf) thrust dry and 85 kN (19,000 lbf) with afterburner. The FA-50 features the F404-GE-102 variant, producing 53.07 kN (11,930 lbf) thrust dry and 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) with afterburner.

Maximum Speed: The Tejas has a maximum speed of 2,220 km/h (Mach 1.8), which is significantly faster than the FA-50’s maximum speed of 1,837.5 km/h (Mach 1.5).

Combat Range: The Tejas has a combat range of 739 km (459 mi), whereas the FA-50 has a much longer range of 1,851 km (1,150 mi).

Hardpoints: The Tejas features 9 hardpoints with a total capacity of 5,300 kg, while the FA-50 has 7 hardpoints capable of carrying up to 5,400 kg of payload.

Cost: The Tejas is priced at approximately $40 million per unit, whereas the FA-50 ranges between $30 million to $40 million per unit, making the FA-50 potentially more cost-effective depending on the variant chosen.

Weapons
When it comes to weaponry, the Tejas MK1A offers a wider range of options compared to the FA-50 Golden Eagle. The Tejas MK1A is equipped with beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles, allowing it to engage targets at greater distances, enhancing its combat effectiveness in air superiority missions. Additionally, it can carry precision-guided munitions for accurate strikes against ground targets, as well as standoff weapons, which can be launched from a distance to minimize exposure to enemy defenses. This diverse armament enables the Tejas to perform a variety of roles, from air-to-air combat to ground support.

In contrast, the FA-50 also features a respectable armament capability but has a more limited selection. It can carry air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM, as well as precision-guided bombs. However, its focus leans more toward close air support and light strike missions rather than the extensive versatility that the Tejas offers.

Naval Variant
The Tejas Mk1A has a naval variant designed for carrier operations, which is still in development. This version includes upgrades like a nose droop for better visibility during landings and takeoffs, a strengthened undercarriage, and an arrestor hook for safe landings on aircraft carriers.

In contrast, the FA-50 does not have a naval variant. While it’s versatile for different missions, it’s not designed for carrier operations, limiting its flexibility compared to the naval Tejas, which can operate from both land and carriers.