U.S. Government Approves $350 Million Weapon Sale to South Korea, MH-60R Engines Included

South Korea has received approval from the U.S. government for the sale of weapons worth $350 million, including the engine of the maritime operations helicopter “MH-60R (Seahawk).” The path has been opened to introduce six U.S. General Electric (GE) engines.

According to the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), on the 11th, this department approved a weapon sale of $350 million to the Korean government on the 8th. The approval list included the sale of Seahawk’s engine “T-700 401C or 401D,” spare engine containers, parts, personnel training, and technical and logistical support.

The T-700 is a turboshaft type that was installed in the first South Korean helicopter “Surion” in 2010. Korea decided to purchase a total of six engines and applied for DSCA’s permission. As a result of the investigation, it was concluded that the engine export does not have a negative impact on U.S. security, and approval was granted.

DSCA said, “This sale will support the achievement of U.S. foreign policy goals and national security objectives by improving the security of a major ally.” It added, “It can enhance the ability to perform secondary tasks including vertical replenishment (a method of supplying materials from the sea using a helicopter), search and rescue, and anti-surface and anti-submarine mission capabilities.” The agency emphasized, “Korea will use its enhanced capabilities as a deterrent against regional threats and to strengthen homeland defense.”

With DSCA’s permission, a contract with GE will be concluded in Korea, and the engines will be introduced. Eight U.S. government officials and four GE personnel will be invited to Korea to receive technical supervision and education support.