Peruvian Firm SEMAN to Manufacture Parts for S.Korean KF-21 Jet

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Peruvian aerospace company SEMAN, enabling local production of KF-21 components should Peru select the aircraft.

KAI is positioning itself to supply Peru with FA-50 light attack jets and KF-21 Boramae fighters as the South American nation seeks to modernize its combat aircraft fleet. Peru’s Air Force requires 24 fighters to replace aging Soviet-era MiG-29s and Su-25s.

The agreement with SEMAN follows a similar agreement in July regarding FA-50 parts. The initiative underscores KAI's strategy to strengthen its footprint in Central and South America.

According to KAI, Peru serves as a key gateway for expanding the market for South Korean-made military aircraft in the region. SEMAN’s existing experience with South Korean platforms supports this vision; the company previously assembled 16 of the 20 KAI KT-1 basic trainers currently in service with the Peruvian Air Force.

The agreement was formalized during a ceremony attended by South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte. KAI CEO Kang Gu-young stated, “If it acquires the KF-21 and FA-50, Peru will become the first foreign customer to have KAI’s main fixed-wing aircraft line.”

Peru's procurement process is competitive, with other potential contenders including Lockheed Martin’s F-16V, Saab’s Gripen E, and Dassault’s Rafale. Each platform offers advanced capabilities, with factors such as cost, technology transfer, and local industrial collaboration likely to influence the final decision.

The FA-50 has been acquired by international air forces, including Poland, the Philippines, and Malaysia. Meanwhile, the KF-21, currently undergoing flight testing in South Korea, has yet to secure an export order. The jet is expected to enter service with the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) in 2026.