Washington: The United States has approved a substantial arms deal to supply South Korea with 36 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, a transaction valued at approximately $3.5 billion, according to the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
The deal encompasses not just the helicopters but also a comprehensive array of military equipment. This includes 76 T700-GE-701D engines, 456 AGM-114R2 missiles, and 152 AGM-179A air-to-ground missiles. Additionally, the package features 40 AAR-57 missile warning systems to enhance the helicopters’ protection against incoming threats.
The DSCA stated that this agreement supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by bolstering an important ally in the Indo-Pacific region. However, the sale is subject to approval by the U.S. Congress, a routine procedure in international arms transactions.
The DSCA believes that this deal will strengthen South Korea’s ability to address current and future threats, providing a significant deterrent and contributing to regional stability.
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The AGM-179A guided missiles included in the package enable the Apache helicopters to engage and destroy armored vehicles from distances up to 8 kilometers. The AGM-114R2 missiles offer the capability to strike targets without requiring direct visual contact.
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In a related development, Poland also signed a deal with the U.S. in August to acquire 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters.
