US Department of State Approves $820 Billion Follow-up Support Sale of F-35 to Korea

[Asia Economy Reporter Seulgina Jo] The U.S. Department of State has approved a follow-up support and service sale worth $675 million (approximately 820 billion KRW) for South Korea's F-35 fighter jets and related equipment.

On the 10th (local time), according to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) under the U.S. Department of Defense, this action was taken in response to South Korea's request for support and services related to F-35 fighter jets, engines, weapons, publications, technical documents, support equipment, spare and repair parts, repair and return, test equipment, software delivery and support, personnel training equipment, and logistics support from U.S. government and contractors.

South Korea plans to sequentially acquire 40 F-35A stealth fighters from the U.S. and received 13 units last year.

The State Department's action on this day is a procedural step under U.S. law and does not signify a finalized sale. DSCA reported the government's sales approval to the U.S. Congress for further procedures. Once approved by Congress, negotiations between defense contractors such as Lockheed Martin, Pratt & Whitney, and South Korea will commence.

DSCA explained, "South Korea is one of the significant political and economic powers in East Asia and the Western Pacific and a key partner for the U.S. in securing peace and stability in the region. By meeting South Korea's legitimate security and defense needs, we will support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.