Cruise Missile for the FA-50 Tested

Currently, prototype versions of the missile are being tested exclusively on the FA-50, as the KF-21 Boramae is still a test aircraft and new types of weapons will probably only be evaluated on it from 2026 onward. Earlier, tests had been conducted on F-4 Phantom II fighter jets, but after these aircraft were withdrawn from service, the Fighting Eagle remained the only available test platform

The Cheonryong missile is being developed by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) along with companies LIG Nex1 and Hanwha Aerospace. The program may have been initiated following Germany’s sale of 260 Taurus KEPD 350 missiles, which included an accompanying technology transfer (covering, among other things, the penetrating warhead).

As a result of the work on the new missile, the Koreans expect to achieve a “Korean Taurus” counterpart, as well as a weapon with a somewhat greater range (reports mention over 500 km, or within the range of 500–800 km), while also being slightly lighter (1.3 tonnes). A version with a smaller fuel reserve is also planned for the FA-50. This is because the aircraft can only carry a maximum payload of 1 tonne under its strongest hardpoints. For this reason, the version for the FA-50 is expected to have a range of about 350 km. Nevertheless, the ability to equip this aircraft with a cruise missile capable of bunker penetration (likely using the same warhead), stealth features, and accuracy with a CEP of 1–2 meters will dramatically enhance the FA-50’s combat value.

The Cheonryong missiles are scheduled to enter service in 2028, with the full Korean order of 200 units to be completed by 2031. The missile will also likely be offered for export.