South Korea has decided to acquire military aircraft from the United States to enhance its surveillance capabilities amid the persistent threat from nuclear-armed North Korea.
Newsweek reached out to the North Korean Embassy in Beijing for comment via email.
Why It Matters
North Korea has refused to give up its nuclear weapons, estimated to number about 50 warheads, and has continued its missile development. The United States is committed to South Korea’s security, having signed a mutual defense treaty with the country in 1953, following the Korean War.
In addition to developing weapons domestically, such as Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missiles, South Korea has relied on introducing advanced U.S.-made military hardware to build its armed forces, including F-35A stealth fighter jets and P-8 maritime patrol aircraft.
South Korea’s latest arms procurement comes as the Trump administration pressures allies and partners to increase defense spending by purchasing American weapons.
What To Know
South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported on Tuesday that the Defense Acquisition Program Administration has selected U.S. defense contractor L3Harris Technologies to supply airborne control aircraft as part of the country’s surveillance aircraft fleet.
The estimated cost for purchasing four Global 6500 aircraft, scheduled for delivery by 2032, is 3.87 trillion won ($2.82 billion), according to the report. They will supplement the current fleet of four Boeing E-7 airborne control aircraft operated by the Air Force.
The decision to expand South Korea’s fleet of airborne control aircraft was in response to what the report described as “growing aerial threats” from North Korea, which has developed self-exploding attack drones, and other unspecified neighboring countries.
China, which maintains a military presence in disputed waters near South Korea, has been rapidly building and modernizing its air power by developing advanced aircraft.
L3Harris Technologies also confirmed that it has been selected by South Korea to deliver aircraft equipped with advanced airborne early warning and control systems, saying the aircraft will provide continuous air surveillance and control capabilities.
According to the company, the Global 6500 is a business jet that has been modified, or what it calls “missionized,” with sensor systems capable of conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. As of July, two aircraft had been delivered to customers.
Given the need for affordable yet capable aircraft for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, L3Harris Technologies stated in July that demand is growing to convert commercial aircraft by adding mission equipment and survivability features.
What People Are Saying
South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration said on Tuesday: “This project is expected to ensure round-the-clock aerial surveillance capabilities against enemy air threats during both wartime and peacetime, and to enable independent and efficient air control operations by the South Korean military.”
L3Harris Technologies said on Wednesday: “This project enhances the Republic of Korea Armed Forces’ ability to maintain continuous air surveillance and control capabilities in response to growing aerial threats.”
The Republic of Korea is the official name of South Korea.
What Happens Next
It remains to be seen whether South Korea will place additional orders for weapons from the U.S. as part of its military buildup to counter the threat from North Korea.
Read the full article here
