Story perspectives

US Approves $4.2 B Helicopter Sale to South Korea

5/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

On May 18, 2026 the U.S. State Department approved a $4.2 billion weapons sale to South Korea.
The deal includes up to 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters worth $3 billion and an AH-64E Apache upgrade valued at $1.2 billion; Sikorsky will supply the helicopters while Boeing will handle the upgrade.
The State Department said the sale will boost the Korean Navy’s anti-submarine and Army’s attack-helicopter capabilities without altering the regional balance, requiring congressional review.

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Story summary

On May 18, 2026 the U.S. State Department approved a $4.2 billion weapons sale to South Korea.
The deal includes up to 24 MH-60R Seahawk helicopters worth $3 billion and an AH-64E Apache upgrade valued at $1.2 billion; Sikorsky will supply the helicopters while Boeing will handle the upgrade.
The State Department said the sale will boost the Korean Navy’s anti-submarine and Army’s attack-helicopter capabilities without altering the regional balance, requiring congressional review.