South Korea Surprises by Selecting C-390 as Future Military Heavy Transport Alongside Purchase of 20 Additional F-35A Jets

In an unexpected twist, South Korea's defense authorities made a surprising decision on Monday by opting for Embraer's C-390 over offerings from industry giants Lockheed Martin and Airbus as the Air Force's new large transport aircraft

The Defense Project Promotion Committee, as reported by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), has chosen the C-390 for the 710 billion won (US$544.4 million) acquisition project slated until 2026. Although the exact number of aircraft to be procured was not disclosed, it's anticipated that South Korea might acquire three units.

Currently, the South Korean Air Force operates the Lockheed Martin C-130J as its primary large military transport aircraft.

In a simultaneous move, the committee officially confirmed the selection of Lockheed Martin's F-35 for the nation's additional next-generation fighter jets procurement project, a decision widely expected by many.

Under the 4.26 trillion-won project, projected to continue until 2028, South Korea is planning to acquire an additional 20 F-35s. This acquisition is part of efforts aimed at enhancing deterrence capabilities against evolving military threats from North Korea.

While South Korea presently possesses a fleet of 40 F-35s, the Air Force recently decided to retire one due to damages caused by a bird strike in January of the previous year.

DAPA emphasized that the inclusion of more F-35s will significantly bolster the nation's independent deterrence and response capabilities, particularly in the face of North Korea's persistent nuclear and missile threats.