The Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) is embarking on a major fleet and unit reorganization centered on deploying its new home-grown 4.5-generation fighter, the
KF-21 "Boramae." This initiative marks a significant generational shift from older aircraft to cutting-edge aerial assets.
Key details of the restructuring plan include:
- Revival of the 156th Fighter Squadron (Yecheon): In September 2026, the 156th Fighter Squadron at the 16th Fighter Wing in Yecheon will be reactivated to become the first unit to operate the KF-21, starting with six two-seater variants. Yecheon will transform into a "conversion and training hub," eventually hosting around 20 KF-21 Block 1 fighters alongside TA-50 tactical lead-in trainers.
- Symbolism of the "150s" Units: In ROKAF tradition, squadron numbers in the 150s have historically symbolized elite, top-tier units (previously flying F-4 Phantoms or currently operating F-35A stealth fighters). Reviving the 156th Squadron—disbanded 14 years ago—signifies inheriting this legacy for the KF-21 era.
- Accelerated Retirement of the KF-5 (Suwon): To accommodate the relocation of FA-50 light fighters from Yecheon to Suwon, the Air Force will fast-track the retirement of its aging KF-5 "Gegong-ho" fighters by about three years. Two KF-5 squadrons based in Suwon are scheduled to step-by-step retire between late 2026 and late 2027 due to structural fatigue and safety limits.
- Expansion to the East Coast and Inland (Kangneung & Wonju): Following Yecheon, the 18th Fighter Wing in Kangneung—located closest to North Korea—is expected to deploy KF-21 Block 1 fighters by early 2027 for front-line air defense over the East Coast and DMZ. Subsequently, the upgraded KF-21 Block 2 variants are planned to be deployed at the 8th Fighter Wing in Wonju.
Ultimately, this restructuring will establish a multi-layered, three-tier fighter lineup consisting of the
F-35A, KF-21, and FA-50, bridging the history of South Korea's 3rd-generation air power into the 4.5 and 5th-generation eras.
