U.S. Reaffirms $3.5 Billion Sale of Apache Helicopters to South Korea

The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to the $3.5 billion sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to South Korea.

However, recent reports indicate that the South Korean military is reevaluating its plans to acquire an additional 36 helicopters. Concerns over the vulnerability of helicopters in modern warfare, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, have prompted this reassessment.

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According to the local daily Chosun, military sources reveal that the South Korean Ministry of National Defense, the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA), and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) are conducting a comprehensive review of the Apache acquisition plan. South Korea had previously purchased 36 AH-64E Apaches in 2013, completing that order in early 2017.

The current review will consider the possibility of reducing the number of helicopters to be acquired, with some Army officials expressing doubts about needing all 36 units. “There is already a sentiment within the Army that it may not acquire all 36 units due to these concerns,” noted one source. As part of this evaluation, the Ministry of National Defense and associated agencies are reassessing the necessity of the planned acquisition, which could lead to a reduction in the order or even a cancellation.

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Critics have argued that the Republic of Korea Army should prioritize more advanced, unmanned systems instead of relying heavily on traditional manned helicopters.

Also KAI plans to invest approximately KRW 8 trillion ($5.9 billion) by 2040 in its High-Speed eXperimental Utility Helicopter (XUH or HSXUH) project.atak-2 apache karşılaştırma This initiative is designed to fulfill South Korea’s military requirements by providing a 5,000-lb. class high-speed helicopter that can effectively meet modern operational needs.