US mulls Aegis sale to Korea
The US State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale of Aegis combat systems to South Korea, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 9 June.
The potential sale also includes associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated $1.91 billion. The Aegis system is being sought by South Korea to enhance the capabilities of its naval ships and upgrade its navy's ballistic missile defence and shipboard combat capability.
South Korea has requested three Aegis shipboard combat systems, three MK-41 vertical launching systems, three common data link management systems and three AN/UPX-29(V) identification friend or foe interrogators. It has also requested spare and repair parts, publications and technical documentation, support equipment, logistics support services and other related services.
Lockheed Martin Maritime Systems and Training, Raytheon, and General Dynamics Armament Systems will be the principle contractors for the sale if it goes ahead.
More from Naval Warfare
-
HMS Agamemnon: details of the dive and what the Astute-class signifies for the UK Royal Navy
As HMS Agamemnon moves closer towards joining the UK’s in-service submarine fleet, how does the sixth Astute-class fit into the Royal Navy’s defence strategy?
-
French Navy frigates to align with Hellenic Navy after Aster missile enhancement
The FDI frigates will have an enhanced warfare capability that matches the configuration of ships ordered by Greece.
-
Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress
The nuclear-powered vessel, which could carry the Poseidon autonomous torpedo – dubbed the “doomsday missile” – marks another step forward in Russia’s maritime defence push.
-
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.