Korea opts out of Apache helicopters, betting on drones and AI

The Boeing AH-64 Apache takes part in military training in Seoul, Sept. 4, 2023. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Korea has effectively abandoned its plan to acquire 36 additional Apache attack helicopters, shifting its defense priorities toward unmanned systems and advanced technologies in response to evolving trends in modern warfare.

The second phase of Korea’s heavy attack helicopter acquisition program — which sought to purchase U.S.-made AH-64E Apache helicopters by 2028 at a projected cost of more than 3 trillion won, or $2.2 billion — was effectively scrapped after nearly all of its funding was eliminated in a supplementary budget approved Friday. Rep. Yu Yong-weon of the People Power Party said 97 billion won of the 100 billion initially allocated was cut, with the remaining 3 billion reassigned.

Yu welcomed the decision, citing the increasing vulnerability of helicopters to low-cost missile and drone attacks — a vulnerability highlighted by recent developments on the battlefield in Ukraine.

“The reconsideration of Apache procurement is a positive step,” he said. “We need to invest in drones and other cutting-edge systems.”

The Apache purchase was initially approved under the previous administration’s offensive operational strategy. However, defense officials have noted that U.S. prices for the helicopters have surged by 66 percent compared to the first-phase deal a decade ago, raising questions over cost-effectiveness.

Korea’s military leadership had already decided in May to reconsider the program in favor of hybrid crewed and autonomous systems. Analysts cite the heavy losses of Russian helicopters to shoulder-fired missiles in Ukraine as a cautionary signal. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army has canceled its next-generation attack helicopter project, with similar reviews underway in Japan and Australia.

“Drones and smart systems are redefining modern battlefields,” Yu said. “Rather than clinging to expensive legacy platforms, we must invest in capabilities that reflect the future of warfare.”