South Korea has showcased a drone sidekick for its upcoming KF-21 Boramae fighter jets, designed to take on high-risk tasks such as surveillance, jamming, and precision strikes.
Called the Low Observable Unmanned Wingman System (LOWUS), the drone features a stealth-friendly design with a trapezoidal fuselage, swept wings, V-tail, and top-mounted air intake, all aimed at reducing its radar signature for improved survivability.
It also carries a visible electro-optical sensor under the nose, and could soon integrate an active electronically scanned array radar to enhance its ability to track multiple targets while staying difficult to jam or detect.
LOWUS is expected to complement the Block 1 version of the KF-21, which lacks an internal weapons bay. By executing strike missions closer to threats, the drone allows the fighter jet to operate at safer distances and focus on air-to-air combat.
Developed by Korean Air and the Agency for Defense Development, the drone is part of a 2021 project backed by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration.
‘A Force Multiplier’
A recent simulation by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) showed how the KF-21 could operate with LOWUS in a coordinated strike.
In the scenario, the pilot uses an onboard display to command the drones, directing them to destroy enemy radars ahead of a follow-up bombing run.
The mission highlighted LOWUS’ role as a risk-absorbing asset that can break through air defenses and clear the way for crewed aircraft.
Though autonomous, the drone operates under human supervision and responds to in-flight commands from the lead aircraft.
Flight trials with the KF-21 are planned for 2026, with full development expected in 2027 and operational deployment around 2030.
Once in service, KAI said LOWUS will “multiply the combat power of the KF-21” and expand the country’s tactical options in contested airspace.
