South Korea’s National Assembly has committed about $183 million (239 billion won) to the 2024 defense budget for the production of 40 KF-21 Boramae fighter jets despite facing significant challenges, including tensions over Indonesia’s participation in the program.

This funding decision, crucial for Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), aims to kickstart production next year but comes amid debates about halving the initial batch due to design concerns. It also potentially impacts the program’s international appeal and economies of scale.