U.S. approves military sale to the Republic of Korea for MH-60R multi-mission helicopters

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $3.0 billion sale of MH-60R multi-mission helicopters to South Korea, a move the administration says will bolster an important ally’s maritime capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the proposed Foreign Military Sale under transmittal 26-45.

Seoul requested 24 MH-60R helicopters along with a broad package of sensors, weapons, training and support. The request includes 52 embedded GPS/INS navigation systems with anti-spoofing capability (48 installed, four spares); 24 Airborne Low Frequency Sonars for anti-submarine warfare; and eight M240D 7.62mm machine guns. Also bundled are T700-GE-401D engines; AN/AVS-9 night-vision devices; AN/AAR-47 missile warning systems; AN/ALE-47 countermeasure dispensers; AN/APX-123 Identification Friend or Foe transponders; AN/AAS-44C(V) multi-spectral targeting systems; KIV-78 cryptographic IFF appliqués; AN/ALQ-210 electronic support measures; and APS-153(V) multi-mode radars.

The package extends to mission planning systems, multiple training simulators and trainers, spare and repair parts, technical publications, test equipment, ferry support, and U.S. government and contractor engineering, logistics and training services. It also encompasses obsolescence engineering, integration and testing to ensure readiness for production of the Korean MH-60R fleet, according to the notification.

Washington said the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the defense of a “major ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific.” The State Department added that the acquisition would enhance South Korea’s ability to counter current and future threats by expanding the navy’s multi-mission helicopter capacity and providing a credible deterrent. The sale “will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” and South Korea “will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment,” the notice said.

Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, based in Owego, New York, is designated the principal contractor. The MH-60R, built by Lockheed Martin’s Sikorsky unit, is the U.S. Navy’s primary shipborne helicopter for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, search and rescue, surveillance and other maritime missions, and is in service with several U.S. allies.

Congress will now review the proposed sale. Approval by the State Department does not constitute a final contract, and the scope and value of the package can be refined during negotiations.