U.S. approves modernization of South Korea's F-15K fighters: a deal worth up to $6.2 billion

The U.S. State Department gave the green light to a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Republic of Korea for an estimated value of US$6.2 billion. This agreement includes the comprehensive modernization of the Asian country’s F-15K fighter aircraft fleet, thus strengthening its air defense capabilities in a context of increasing tensions in the region.

The official certification was delivered to the U.S. Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marking a key step in the approval process. This modernization will enable the South Korean F-15K to be equipped with the most advanced technologies available for the Eagle family of fighter aircraft, significantly enhancing their combat and survivability capabilities on the battlefield.

ROKAF F-15K — The F-15K heavy fighter fleet represents the ROKAF’s major deterrent, a capability that will be increased after modernization.

Equipment requested by South Korea

As part of the agreement, South Korea is seeking to acquire the following equipment and systems:

96 Advanced Display Core Processor II (ADCP II) mission system computers.
70 AN/APG-82(v)1 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars.
70 AN/ALQ-250 Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare suites.
70 AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS) missile approach warning systems.

In addition, other essential components are included to ensure successful implementation and sustainment of the program, including:

Joint Mission Planning Systems (JMPS) with custom components.
Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems.
Classified and unclassified software, along with technical documentation.
Major modifications, maintenance, spare parts and logistical support.
Personnel training and training equipment.
Aerial refueling, transportation and facility construction support.

After modernization, the more than 50 F-15K Slam Eagle fighters operated by the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) will acquire capabilities very similar to those provided by the modern F-15EX “Eagle II”, keeping this formidable aircraft at the technological forefront for decades to come.