UAE Buys Indonesia’s Stake and Steps Forward to Finance Korean Fighter KF-21 Project

In a move that highlights the burgeoning ties between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and South Korea, the UAE officially announced its participation in the KF-21 project, pledging to cover Indonesia’s share of the investment.

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This announcement comes as a significant step towards elevating their existing «special strategic partnership» to the highest level, a sentiment echoed during the 2023 summit where agreements were signed to invest $30 billion in Korean sectors including Nuclear Power, Energy, Hydrogen, and Defense.

A Commitment to Bolster Korean Aerospace Industry

As the KFX phase reaches its culmination, the KF-21, having passed successful tests, is slated to enter full production by 2024. The UAE has previously invested in advanced Korean weapons like the M-SAM Block-II interceptor and Chunmoo, hinting at a deepening defense collaboration.

Indonesia’s Share in the KF-21 Project

The UAE is poised to step in to cover Indonesia’s unsettled contribution, potentially settling the near 1 trillion won controversy.

Indonesian flag removed from 5th KF-21 Boramae prototype

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This gesture marks a pivotal moment in fostering trilateral cooperation between Korea, Indonesia, and the UAE, although it brings along its set of complexities, including export approvals and coordination between the countries.

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The Tawajun Economic Committee spearheads the UAE’s defense industry acquisitions and has sent a proposal to Korea’s National Security Office for collaboration on the KF-21 project. While details remain under wraps, the anticipation builds up towards the UAE president Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit to Korea in October, potentially sealing the partnership and outlining the specifics of the investment.

Poland Shows Interest

Moreover, the KF-21 project is not only drawing attention from the UAE. Poland has also expressed a deep interest, highlighting the global attention and potential collaborations the project might foster in the near future.

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