The United States plans to sell eight advanced multi-purpose helicopters and 18 naval missiles to South Korea costing nearly $1.1 billion, the Yonhap news agency reported on Friday quoting a U.S. defense agency.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, affiliated to the Defense Department, has notified the U.S. Congress of possible sales to South Korea of eight MH-60R Seahawk multi-mission helicopters along with related parts, equipment, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $1 billion.
It has also informed the Congress of another plan to sell Seoul for 18 UGM-84L Harpoon anti-ship missiles to be carried by submarines. The deal is expected cost $84 million.
"It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our Korean ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability, which will contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area," the agency said and added that there would be no adverse impact on the U.S. defense preparedness as a result of the proposed sales.
South Korea is a key U.S. ally in the Asia-Pacific region.
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