US Approves $4 Billion Arms Sale To South Korea

WASHINGTON: (Web Desk) – The United States has approved a major arms deal worth more than $4 billion to South Korea, marking a significant boost in defense cooperation between the two allies amid ongoing regional tensions.

According to the U.S. State Department, the approved package includes a $3 billion sale of 24 MH-60R Seahawk naval helicopters, also known as “Romeo” helicopters. These aircraft are designed for anti-submarine warfare as well as surface and land target operations.

In addition, Washington has cleared $1.2 billion for upgrades to South Korea’s fleet of AH-64 Apache attack helicopters, which are considered a key component of the country’s combat aviation capabilities.

Officials said the deal is intended to strengthen South Korea’s ability to respond to current and future security threats while reinforcing deterrence in the region.

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The approval comes as South Korea continues to expand its defense spending commitments. President Lee Jae-myung previously pledged during a summit with U.S. President Donald Trump that Seoul would purchase around $25 billion in American military equipment by 2030 and contribute $33 billion toward supporting U.S. forces stationed in South Korea.

The agreement also reflects Washington’s continued push for allies to increase defense contributions. Trump has repeatedly urged NATO and Indo-Pacific partners to raise military spending and reduce reliance on U.S. forces.

Meanwhile, South Korea maintains a dual-track approach of strengthening its military readiness while also expressing openness to dialogue with North Korea, although Pyongyang has not responded to such outreach.

The latest deal underscores the deepening military partnership between Washington and Seoul at a time of heightened strategic competition in the region.