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US Approves Upgrade to Enhance Radar and Electronic Warfare for South Korea F15K Fleet.
On November 19, 2024, the United States authorized a potential Foreign Military Sale of equipment and services to upgrade South Korea's F-15K aircraft fleet, valued at an estimated $6.2 billion. This decision, made by the Department of State, was certified by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which has notified Congress.
A member of the Republic of Korea Air Force taxis a ROKAF F-15K Slam Eagle at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, April 12, 2024 (Picture source: US DoD)
The F-15K Slam Eagle, a variant of the F-15E Strike Eagle developed by Boeing for the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF), is designed for versatile operations. It can conduct long-range precision strikes under all weather and day-and-night conditions. Equipped with two Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 engines delivering 129 kN of thrust each, the F-15K achieves a maximum speed of Mach 2.5 and an operational ceiling of 20,000 meters. Its robust structure and advanced avionics provide excellent maneuverability and extended operational range to meet modern mission requirements.
The F-15K is armed with an internal M61A1 Vulcan 20mm cannon and can carry up to 11,110 kg of external payload across 11 hardpoints. It supports a wide range of air-to-air missiles, such as AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9 Sidewinder, and air-to-ground munitions like the AGM-84K SLAM-ER and AGM-84H Harpoon Block II. The AN/APG-63(V)1 radar, featuring electronically scanned array technology, enhances detection and tracking capabilities, while its integrated electronic warfare system provides effective countermeasures. The F-15K production began in 2005, with South Korea procuring 40 units initially, followed by an additional 21 in 2008, bringing the total fleet to 61 aircraft.
The upgrade program includes 96 Advanced Display Core Processor II (ADCP II) mission computers, 70 AN/APG-82(v)1 AESA radars, 70 AN/ALQ-250 Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) electronic warfare suites, and 70 AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning Systems (CMWS). Additional non-major defense items include Joint Mission Planning Systems (JMPS), customized mission components, helmet-mounted cueing systems, spare parts, classified and unclassified software, technical documentation, and a range of maintenance, training, and logistical support services.
The upgrade aims to strengthen South Korea’s air defense capabilities against current and future threats while ensuring interoperability with U.S. forces, a critical factor for maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. According to the DSCA, South Korea is expected to integrate the enhanced capabilities seamlessly into its armed forces.
The sale, which requires Congressional approval, will not alter the fundamental military balance in the region. Boeing (Arlington, VA), Raytheon Technologies (Forest, MS), and BAE Systems (Falls Church, VA) are identified as primary contractors, with no offset agreements proposed or additional U.S. personnel deployments required for implementation.
This announcement follows a recent $4.9 billion approval for the sale of four E-7 Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft, reflecting South Korea’s ongoing efforts to bolster its aerial defense framework in collaboration with U.S. forces.
South Korea operates in a tense geopolitical environment, particularly in light of escalating provocations from North Korea. In October 2024, Pyongyang destroyed road sections linking the two nations, signaling heightened hostilities. This action is part of broader provocations, including intensified military drills and drone incursions. North Korea's growing ties with Russia, including sending troops to aid Moscow in the Ukraine conflict, further complicate the regional security landscape.
The F-15K upgrade program is strategically significant under these conditions. Enhancements such as advanced AESA radars, improved electronic warfare systems, and enhanced detection capabilities will bolster South Korea's defensive and deterrence posture. These improvements are vital for surveillance and reconnaissance missions, which help anticipate and respond to potential threats. Additionally, the upgrades will enhance interoperability with U.S. forces, strengthening military alliances and contributing to regional stability.