WASHINGTON, USA: The United States has approved a $3.5 billion sale of up to 36 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to South Korea, along with related equipment, including missiles.
According to the Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), this sale is expected to enhance South Korea’s capability to address current and future threats, bolstering its defence posture in the Indo-Pacific region. The sale is seen as vital to maintaining the security of a key U.S. ally, contributing to regional stability and economic progress.
The State Department has given the green light for the sale, with Boeing and Lockheed Martin serving as the primary contractors. The DSCA has notified Congress, which must still approve the transaction.
This announcement coincides with the start of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, a major annual joint military drill between Washington and Seoul, aimed at countering the nuclear threat from North Korea. The exercise, running until August 29, involves thousands of military personnel and underscores the continued U.S.-South Korea defence partnership.
