Based on the lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, the South Korean Army is reportedly reconsidering its purchase of 36 new AH-64E Apache attack helicopters ordered from the United States, as this type of platform has proven to be particularly vulnerable in today’s battlefields. The news, published by South Korean local media after consulting military sources, represents a significant setback for Boeing, as it could mean the loss of a $3.5 billion contract that had already been authorized.
Chosun was the first outlet to break the story, citing anonymous officials who stated: “The Ministry of National Defense, the Army, and the Defense Acquisition Program Administration have initiated a comprehensive review of the purchase of 36 Apache attack helicopters, including a plan to reduce the number of units purchased (…) At the very least, there is an atmosphere that the Army will not introduce all 36 aircraft, which have raised concerns. Depending on the progress of the discussions, there is a possibility that the decision to acquire all 36 aircraft will be completely canceled.”
This issue is significant because if the acquisition proceeds, South Korea would be committing an estimated 70% of its annual budget for army defense capability improvements. Critics of the potential purchase argue that it would be a mistake, claiming that the funds would be better spent on other capabilities, primarily referring to drones, which currently dominate the various fronts in Ukraine and Russia. It has also been reported that the South Korean Army is interested in replacing its 81mm mortars, increasing the focus on acquiring loitering munitions.
Another major obstacle to the acquisition is the price increase observed from the original offer, with the unit cost rising from 44.1 billion won to 73.3 billion won. This has led to plans to reduce the number of aircraft purchased, assuming the acquisitions proceed.
While awaiting a final decision, it’s important to remember that South Korea already operates a fleet of 36 Apache helicopters, which were ordered in 2013 and delivered between 2016 and 2017. These were originally purchased with the “new offensive operational plan” in mind, developed by then-South Korean Defense Minister Song Young-moo, which aimed for a swift resolution in the event of a conflict with North Korea. However, this plan was soon scrapped following the inter-Korean dialogue promoted by the U.S.
Reflecting this shift, Yoo Yong-won, a representative of the People Power Party, stated: “In a situation where cutting-edge military power using unmanned attack aircraft is needed, it is time for our military to reexamine the introduction of additional attack helicopters with a huge budget, in line with the previous government’s new operational plan.”
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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