WASHINGTON (Yonhap) -- The United States is moving to sell eight advanced multi-purpose helicopters and 18 naval missiles to Korea, worth nearly $1.1 billion, according to a defense agency here.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said it has notified Congress of possible sales to South Korea of eight MH-60R Seahawk multi-mission helicopters, along with related parts, equipment, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $1 billion.

It also informed Congress of another plan for a foreign military sale to Seoul for 18 UGM-84L Harpoon anti-ship missiles to be carried by submarines. The expected cost is $84 million.

The agency, affiliated with the Defense Department, said the possible deals come at the request of the Korean government.
It noted Seoul is a key regional ally of Washington.

"It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our Korean ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability, which will contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area," it said.

The agency added there will be no adverse impact on the U.S. defense readiness as a result of the proposed sales.