Washington, 22 August (H.S.): The United States has approved the potential sale of AIM-9X air-to-air missiles and associated equipment to South Korea, the US State Department said on Friday, describing the proposed deal as a step that would strengthen the Asian ally’s air-defence capabilities.

According to South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency, the department announced its determination regarding the proposed government-to-government Foreign Military Sale (FMS), which has an estimated value of $125 million. The proposed sale is subject to congressional notification and review.

According to the department, South Korea has requested 103 AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles and 10 guidance units. The package would also include training-related materials and equipment, spare parts and other defence-related items.

In a statement, the department said the proposed sale would advance US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a major ally that serves as an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region.

The department further said the proposed sale would enhance South Korea’s air-defence capabilities, enabling it to address existing and emerging threats. It would also contribute to deterring aggression in the region and maintaining interoperability with US forces.

The department identified RTX Corporation, based in Arlington, Virginia, as the principal contractor for the proposed deal.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar