BAE Systems win $200m contract to support and upgrade Korean Lockheed Martin F-16.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Republic of Korea for Phase 1 upgrades of 134 KF-16C/D Block 52 aircraft and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $200 million.

The Republic of Korea has requested a possible sale for Phase 1 of an upgrade of 134 KF-16C/D Block 52 aircraft to be completed in a potential two-phased approach. Phase 1 entails the sale of U.S. Government and contractor technical, engineering, and logistics support services to support the initial design and development for the overall upgrade program.

This phase will furnish detailed design requirements to include computers, displays, sensors and weapons, system design and pilot-vehicle interface efforts; initiate software design and development; engineering installation design (Group A); construction of an avionics systems integration facility and test stations; define support and training requirements; develop long-lead items; and prepare reports, analyses, and presentations to support system requirements and preliminary design reviews.

Phase 2, if implemented, relates to the KF-16C/D aircraft upgrade with advanced radar and updated avionics. In the event of such a sale, a subsequent notification will be prepared.

This notice relates only to Phase 1. The estimated cost is $200 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by meeting the legitimate security and defense needs of an ally and partner nation. The ROK continues to be an important force for peace, political stability, and economic progress in North East Asia.

This proposed sale will provide the ROK with a design and development plan to improve the capabilities of its KF-16 fleet in order to continue to deter regional threats and strengthen its homeland defense. If Phase 2 of the upgrade program is implemented, the upgraded KF-16 will contribute to the ROK’s goal to develop a more capable defense force and enhance interoperability with U.S. forces.

The proposed sale of this support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractor will be BAE Systems Technology Solution & Services, Inc. in Arlington, Virginia. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.