RoK Acquires $34M RTX Maverick Missiles to Boost Asia-Pacific Air Power

Republic of Korea Boosts Air Power with New USD34 Million Maverick Missile Acquisition

Mohd Hanif Ismail - : Oct 8, 2025 - : 9:26 am

To read the full article, please log in or enter your email below:

The Republic of Korea (RoK) is set to significantly bolster its tactical air-to-ground strike capabilities following the US State Department’s approval of a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) for AGM-65G2 Maverick tactical missiles. The estimated value of the deal, which includes 44 missiles and associated support, is $34 million. This proposed sale demonstrates the United States’ ongoing commitment to supporting a key ally and promoting stability in the volatile Indo-Pacific region.

Sale Details and Logistics

The request from the Republic of Korea is for 44 AGM-65G2 Maverick tactical missiles. The proposed package is a non-Major Defence Equipment sale that also incorporates critical elements such as US government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services. The total estimated cost of $34 million represents the highest estimated value, with the final contract amount expected to be lower depending on final requirements and the signed sales agreement. The RTX Corporation, based in Arlington, Virginia, is slated to be the principal contractor for the sale. The US government has noted that it is currently unaware of any offset agreements requested by the purchaser in connection with this potential sale, though any such agreement would be negotiated directly between the purchaser and the contractor.

Strategic Significance in the Asia-Pacific

This acquisition is strategically important for Seoul, as it aims to enhance its capability to meet current and future threats, particularly against an increasingly complex regional security backdrop. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the sale will improve the RoK's critical air defence capability to deter aggression and ensure interoperability with US forces. The Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) already operates earlier versions of the Maverick, meaning it is expected to absorb the new missiles into its armed forces without difficulty, immediately strengthening its operational readiness. The AGM-65G2 variant is a modern iteration designed for precision strikes against targets such as armoured vehicles, hardened bunkers, and naval targets. The G-model is notable for its use of an imaging infrared guidance system, modified software for improved target tracking, and a heavyweight penetrator warhead, which is particularly effective against hard targets compared to the shaped-charge warheads on earlier models. The Maverick missiles are compatible with the RoKAF's existing aircraft, including the FA-50 Golden Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcons and F-15K Slam Eagles.

Background on the Maverick Missile System

The AGM-65 Maverick is a well-established and widely deployed tactical air-to-surface guided missile. Developed originally by Hughes Aircraft, it entered service with the US Air Force in 1972 and has been exported to over 30 countries. It is known for its fire-and-forget capability, allowing the launch aircraft to immediately focus on other tasks after firing, although it requires initial input from the pilot to lock onto a target. The missile is modular, allowing for different combinations of guidance packages—including electro-optical, laser, and imaging infrared—and warheads to be fitted. The AGM-65 is utilised for close air support, interdiction, and defence suppression missions, providing a reliable capability against a broad range of tactical targets.