South Korea has revealed its newest military aviation project - the Low Observable Unmanned Wingman System (LOWUS), a stealthy combat drone designed to operate alongside the country's KF-21 Boramae fighter jets.
The first LOWUS prototype was displayed at Korean Air's Busan Tech Center, marking a major milestone in South Korea's expanding unmanned aerial capabilities. The project, launched in 2021, is a collaboration between Korean Air and the Agency for Defense Development (ADD).
The stealth drone features radar-absorbent materials and a reduced radar cross-section. Its design bears similarities to other international unmanned combat aircraft like the American XQ-58A Valkyrie, with a trapezoidal fuselage, swept wings, and V-shaped tail. A distinctive electro-optical sensor turret is mounted under the nose.
LOWUS is being developed specifically for manned-unmanned teaming operations, where it will work semi-autonomously with piloted aircraft. The drone is expected to conduct reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and strike missions in support of the KF-21 fighter program.
Initial flight testing is planned for late 2023, with manned-unmanned teaming trials scheduled for 2027. The Republic of Korea Air Force plans to pair LOWUS primarily with two-seat variants of the KF-21, allowing the second crew member to control the drone during missions.
The unmanned wingman concept could provide the KF-21 with enhanced capabilities, particularly in high-risk environments. LOWUS could carry weapons internally while the KF-21 maintains distance, using the drone's sensors to engage targets without revealing its own position.
This development is part of South Korea's broader military modernization, which includes establishing a dedicated drone operations command in 2023. The LOWUS program demonstrates the country's growing aerospace capabilities and could potentially become an attractive export product in the international defense market.
Beyond the KF-21, the LOWUS may also support other South Korean aircraft like the FA-50 light combat aircraft, offering increased mission flexibility and survivability for the country's air forces.