United States approves $125 million missile sale to South Korea

The United States government has approved a potential sale to South Korea of 103 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II air-to-air missiles and related equipment. The deal, estimated to be worth approximately $125 million, is being conducted through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program and will be subject to review by the U.S. Congress.

In addition to the missiles, the package includes 10 guidance sets, training equipment, spare parts, and other support items. The AIM-9X Block II features integrated data links, allowing for lock-on after launch to facilitate beyond-visual-range combat operations.

The U.S. Department of State and the Pentagon stated that the sale aims to bolster South Korea's air defense capabilities and deterrence against current and future threats. The move is intended to support U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a key ally vital to political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region, while ensuring interoperability with U.S. forces. RTX Corporation is expected to be the primary contractor for the deal.