BAE Systems has won an $11 million contract from Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) to integrate the AN/APX-127(V)1 Combined Interrogator Transponder (CIT) on KF-21 Boramae aircraft. The Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system helps distinguish allied forces from potential threats.
An open-system architecture allows the CIT to adapt to future missions through software updates. This approach reduces hardware modification costs and risk. The system delivers multi-function capability while supporting current cryptography, anti-jam protection, and cybersecurity standards.
“The APX-127 Combined Interrogator Transponder will equip the KF-21 aircraft with state-of-the-art IFF to help bolster the Republic of Korea’s national defense strategy,” said Seth Guanu, combat identification products program area director at BAE Systems. “This new system gives fifth-generation fighter pilots an edge in air superiority missions and allows them to maintain interoperability with U.S. and coalition partners.”
The AN/APX-127(V)1 replaces the AN/APX-126(V) CIT on the KF-21 without hardware changes. It carries Mark XIIB IFF certification and supports Mode S and Mode 5 encrypted communications. Added receive channels enable passive detection of Mode 5 Level 2 and automatic dependent surveillance – broadcast (ADS-B) In signals to identify friendly aircraft in dynamic environments.
BAE Systems designs IFF solutions that address system obsolescence and increase processing capacity. Over more than 80 years, the company has delivered 1,500 interrogators, 6,000 combined interrogator transponder systems and 16,000 transponders. IFF products are available for all service branches and support the U.S. and coalition forces in air defense, weapon systems, air traffic control, and range instrumentation.
Work on the AN/APX-127(V)1 CIT is performed at BAE Systems’ facilities in Greenlawn, NY and Austin, TX. The KF-21 CIT units are expected to be delivered to KAI for integration and certification in 2026.
Source: BAE Systems
About BAE Systems
BAE Systems is a leader in lifecycle support for commercial aircraft, providing engineering, maintenance, and repair services that span every phase of an aircraft’s life, supporting more than 600 operators and 33,000 aircraft worldwide. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Falls Church, VA, BAE Systems Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, developing and manufacturing defense and aerospace systems for military and government use, including electronic warfare, armored vehicles, naval vessels, munitions, aerospace components, cybersecurity, and intelligence systems. The company employs about 41,000 people across 38 states and multiple international locations, supports U.S. defense programs such as F-35 fighter electronics and naval ship maintenance, and holds more than 2,000 patents across its technology and manufacturing operations.