South Korea fortifies defence against nuclear threat and fighter shortfall with more F-35s
South Korea's new F-35s would include the Block 4 upgrade. (Photo: US DoD)
South Korea has formalised its plans to expand its fleet of Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter aircraft.
South Korea has signed a letter of acceptance (LOA) to acquire an additional 20 Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter aircraft. The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said on 1 January that the LOA was signed in December.
As Shephard reported in September last year, the Republic of Korea was seeking 25 Lockheed Martin fighters under a potential US$5.06 billion Foreign Military Sale. However, recent developments indicated a shift back to the country's initial plan of acquiring only 20 additional aircraft.
The Defense Security and Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said at the time that the F-35s would include the Block 4
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