The U.S. State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale of SM-2 Block IIIB Standard missiles, containers and support to the Republic of Korea.
Estimated cost of the equipment South Korea might acquire is $65 million with Raytheon as the principal contractor.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale on July 1, 2016.
According to the agency’s release, the Republic of Korea has requested a possible sale of seventeen SM-2 Block IIIB Standard Missiles along with eventeen SM-2 Missile Containers. This request also includes personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related logistics support.
The ROK Navy (ROKN) intends to use the SM-2 Block IIIB Standard missiles to supplement its existing SM-2 Block IIIA/IIIB inventory.
“The proposed sale will provide a defensive capability while enhancing interoperability with U.S. and other allied forces. The Republic of Korea will have no difficulty absorbing these additional missiles into its armed forces,” the agency said.
South Korea still has to sign an official contract before any of the equipment is delivered.