The Republic of Korea (ROK) has requested to buy two hundred eighty-eight (288) AGM-114R Hellfire missiles. Also included are AGM-114R spare parts; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; repair and return; storage; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $36 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by meeting the legitimate security and defense needs of one of the closest allies in the INDOPACOM Theater. The ROK is one of the major political and economic powers in East Asia and the Western Pacific and a key partner of the United States in ensuring peace and stability in that region. It is vital to U.S. national interests to assist the ROK in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.
The ROK intends to use these Hellfire missiles to supplement its existing missile capability and current weapon inventory for its AH-64E aircraft. The proposed sale will improve the ROK’s capability to meet current and future threats and ensure interoperability with other AGM-114R Hellfire missile users in the region. The Republic of Korea will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin Corporation, Orlando, FL. The purchaser typically requests offsets. Any offset agreements will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.
Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to the Republic of Korea.