South Korea has announced plans to procure 36 more AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from the United States, signaling its intent to strengthen rotary-wing combat capabilities in response to shifting regional security dynamics and North Korea’s growing military threat. The Republic of Korea Army currently fields 36 AH-64E Apaches and 55 aging AH-1F Cobras. The Apaches, delivered between 2016 and 2017, are among the most advanced in South Korea’s fleet, featuring cutting-edge targeting systems, long-range precision weapons, and modern network integration. Meanwhile, the decades-old Cobras remain in frontline service despite outdated avionics and reduced survivability. The planned acquisition aims to replace these aging platforms, enabling a more cohesive and lethal attack helicopter force equipped for future combat challenges.
