Korean Air Unveils First Loyal Wingman Drone for KF-21 Fighter

South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD) and Korean Air have unveiled the first Low Observable Wingman UAV System (LOWUS) technology demonstrator, designed to operate alongside the KF-21 Boramae fighter, at the Korean Air Tech Center in Busan.

The LOWUS drone is built for manned-unmanned teaming, performing reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and strike missions. Developed under the Defense Acquisition Program Administration’s (DAPA) Future Challenge Defense Technology Project, the program began in 2021 and is scheduled for completion by 2027. The first flight is planned for the end of this year, with manned-unmanned flight trials expected by 2027.

The drone features stealth characteristics, including a reduced radar cross-section and radar-absorbent materials. It resembles the U.S.-developed XQ-58A Valkyrie and Australia’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat, with a trapezoidal fuselage, swept wings, and a V-shaped tail. Unlike the Valkyrie, the LOWUS includes an electro-optical sensor turret beneath the nose. The drone is expected to use a domestically produced engine and could be equipped with an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar.

South Korea is developing the KF-21 to replace the aging F-4E and F-5E/F fighters. The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) plans to deploy 40 KF-21s by 2028 and 120 by 2032. The drone could also support the FA-50 light combat aircraft, enhancing its operational capabilities.

A two-seat variant of the KF-21 is expected to play a key role in controlling the drone, similar to China’s approach with its two-seat J-20 fighter. The addition of the LOWUS could extend the KF-21’s operational range and provide a forward sensing platform, allowing manned aircraft to remain at a safer distance during missions.

Korean Air’s unveiling of the LOWUS marks South Korea’s first domestic manned-unmanned composite aviation system. The development aligns with the country’s broader efforts to expand its uncrewed aerial capabilities, including previous projects like the KUS-FC stealth UCAV and the Kaori-X demonstrator.

The new drone could also become an export product, as South Korea continues to expand its defense exports. If approved for international sale, the LOWUS could complement platforms like the FA-50 in foreign markets.