Seoul: South Korea successfully conducted a safe separation test for a homegrown long-range air-to-surface guided missile under development. The test was designed to ensure the missile can detach from the aircraft safely without affecting its functions.

According to Anadolu Agency, South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) confirmed that the test was conducted on Monday. The goal was to verify the missile's ability to separate cleanly from the aircraft. This test is crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of the missile during its deployment.

DAPA announced plans to carry out additional tests using a test FA-50 aircraft. These tests will precede full integration trials with a KF-21 prototype, which are scheduled to begin in 2027. The missile development project, initiated in 2018, aims to enhance precision strike capabilities for the KF-21 fighter jet.

The agency highlighted the successful test as a significant milestone in the project. DAPA also expressed optimism that the guided missiles will be exported alongside the KF-21, contributing to the nation's arms exports.