The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale to the Republic of Korea (ROK), encompassing enhancements to the KDX-II Class Destroyers under a Product Improvement Program.  

The transaction, valued at $300m, includes logistics and programme support.  

KDX-II is the second variant of the Korean Destroyer eXperimental (KDX) programme. 

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the potential sale.  

South Korea aims to procure upgraded components such as MK 99 fire control system (FCS) cabinets and updated Weapon Direct System (WDS) software, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, along with related training and support services. 

This sale is intended to advance US foreign policy and national security by bolstering the defence capabilities of South Korea.  

The enhancements will enable South Korea to better conduct anti-surface and anti-air warfare, serving as a deterrent against regional threats and reinforcing its national defence.  

The upgrade will address obsolescence with current hardware and required software fixes, without introducing new capabilities.

Thus maintaining the current military balance in the region. 

BAE Systems, Integrated Defense Solutions is the primary contractor, with additional contractors to be chosen through a competitive process.  

The implementation will necessitate temporary visits to South Korea by US Government and contractor personnel for programme oversight, technical support, and training. 

Previously in March, South Korea received US approval for a $170.6m purchase of subsonic sea-skimming aerial targets to support its KDX-III Batch-II Aegis destroyers.