US approves $292M missile sale to South Korea

The U.S. government has authorized a potential sale of 70 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) and related equipment to South Korea, with an estimated cost of $292 million. The State Department announced the decision, noting that the proposed sale will bolster the Asian ally's defense capabilities and enhance regional deterrence.

The request includes 70 AIM-120C-8 missiles and two guidance sections, along with associated containers and support equipment. The State Department stated that the sale will improve the Republic of Korea's ability to counter current and future threats, ensure interoperability with U.S. Forces, and deter aggression.

This specific sale to South Korea is part of a larger, historic $41.6 billion global package approved by the U.S. for advanced Raytheon AIM-120 AMRAAM variants, encompassing over thirty allied and partner nations. This broader authorization, which extends through 2030, aims to establish the AMRAAM as a unifying standard for Western air combat operations and create an interoperable air-defense ecosystem across NATO and Indo-Pacific forces. The initiative also seeks to reinforce Western dominance in the arms market and ensure sufficient stockpiles for high-intensity conflicts.