South Korea has announced plans to purchase Lockheed Martin‘s F-35 Lightning II aircraft as part of its F-X fighter acquisition program.
“We are honored by and appreciate the trust and confidence the Republic of Korea has placed in the 5th Generation F-35 to meet its demanding security requirements. We look forward to supporting the discussions between the Republic of Korea and U.S. governments in support of a final agreement this year,” Orlando Carvalho, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics executive vice president, said in a press release. “This decision strengthens and extends our long-standing security partnership while enhancing regional stability across the greater Asia Pacific theater.”
According to a press release, South Korea will become the third Foreign Military Sales country to acquire the F-35. Israel and Japan selected the F-35A in 2010 and 2011, respectively.
