South Korea has successfully conducted the first flight test of its indigenous long-range air-to-surface Cheonryong missile, following two previous unsuccessful attempts. The trial confirmed the missile’s safe separation from the launch aircraft, successful engine ignition, and completion of its planned flight profile.
The programme is scheduled to complete development by 2028, with production expected to begin in 2029. The missile is planned for integration with the KF-21 Boramae in the early 2030s.
With a range exceeding 600 kilometres, the Cheonryong is designed to penetrate hardened and underground targets with high precision. It also incorporates advanced guidance and low-observable technologies, significantly enhancing the South Korean Air Force’s long-range strike capabilities against future threats.
