Boramae vs. MiG-29 Fulcrum: Which Is the Greatest Korean Fighter Jet?

The article compares South Korea’s new KF-21 Boramae with North Korea’s MiG-29 Fulcrum, focusing on how age and technology affect potential air-to-air performance. It says the KF-21 has entered operational service after South Korea introduced its indigenous 4.5-generation fighter, developed by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) with an AESA radar, digital avionics, sensor fusion, reduced radar signature and modern networking. The MiG-29, a Soviet-era fourth-generation aircraft entering service during the Cold War, is described as North Korea’s most capable fighter, acquired in small numbers in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The piece argues that in beyond-visual-range engagements, the Boramae would outperform using an indigenous GaN AESA radar, modern mission computers, digital electronic warfare, low-observable shaping, and Meteor integration. It contrasts this with the MiG-29’s mechanically scanned N019 Slot Back radar and notes increased vulnerability to modern electronic systems. The article frames the KF-21 as intended to replace F-4 Phantom and F-5 Tiger II fleets.