The United States Department of State has approved a proposed sale of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to South Korea in a deal valued at approximately $292 million.

According to a statement published by the US government, the proposed sale is intended to enhance South Korea's defense capabilities and strengthen its ability to address current and future security challenges.

The package includes 70 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM missiles and two AMRAAM guidance sections requested by the South Korean government.

US officials said the sale would support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the defense readiness of a key regional ally.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified the US Congress of the proposed transaction, initiating the congressional review process required under US law.

Before the sale can be finalized, Congress must complete its review period. Lawmakers are granted 15 days to raise objections to proposed arms sales involving close US allies.

If no objections are submitted during that period, the missile sale will proceed and become official.

The AIM-120C-8 is among the latest variants of the AMRAAM family, a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile widely used by US and allied air forces. The system is designed to improve air combat capabilities and enhance the effectiveness of modern fighter aircraft.

The proposed sale comes amid continued efforts by Washington and Seoul to strengthen military cooperation and maintain readiness in the face of evolving security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region. (ILKHA)