Republic of Korea approves $2.85bn purchase of F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter jets

Against the backdrop of nuclear and missile threats from North Korea, the Republic of Korea has decided to approve the purchase of US fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. This was reported by local publication Yonhap citing the Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA).

Here's What We Know

The Republic of Korea's Air Force operates 40 F-35As. The cost of the new contract will be $2.85 billion, but the exact number of fighters is not specified. Nevertheless, it can be assumed that Seoul will buy about 20 new planes.

The purchase of the F-35A will run until 2028. The plan was approved by the Defence Promotion Subcommittee in June 2022. After the green light from the government, it has yet to undergo a feasibility study.

In addition to Lockheed Martin's fifth-generation fighter jets, the Republic of Korea wants to acquire several missiles. In particular, the purchase of Standard Missile 6 (Raytheon) for the advanced KDX-III Batch-II Aegis destroyers at a cost of $589 million and tactical ground-to-ground guided missiles for $1.18 billion has been approved. Additionally, Korea will spend $53 million to develop its own ship-based missiles for KDX destroyers.

Source: Yonhap