As the military authorities decided to review the second procurement project for large attack helicopters focused on the introduction of the U.S. Apache (AH-64), Boeing, the manufacturer of the Apache, stated that "no unmanned systems or drones can replace attack helicopters." In response to criticisms that helicopters can be easily shot down by suicide attack drones, it noted, "We can sufficiently address this with a manned-unmanned composite system."

Christina Yupa, Vice President of Boeing and head of the attack helicopter business, held a press conference on the afternoon of the 12th at the Royal Park Convention in Yongsan, Seoul, stating, "The U.S. Army plans to operate the Apache until 2060, and there is a steady international demand from countries like Australia and Poland," adding that "the Apache will contribute to enhancing Korea's defense capabilities."

On Dec. 12, at the Royal Park Convention in Yongsan, Seoul, Christina Yupa, Vice President of Boeing and Head of Attack Helicopter Business, and Terry 'T.J.' Jamieson, Director of Attack Helicopter Business, explain the performance of the Apache during a press conference. /Courtesy of Kim Ji-hwan.

South Korea introduced 36 Apaches after investing about 1.9 trillion won in 2012. Subsequently, in 2022, it decided to procure an additional 36 units through the second project for large attack helicopters, but the project is currently on hold. The industry cites the ease with which helicopters were shot down by suicide drones during the Russia-Ukraine war and increased costs compared to the first project as reasons.

T.J. Jamieson, Director of Boeing's attack helicopter business, noted, "Drones are emerging in modern warfare, and Boeing is adept at developing countermeasures," highlighting the Launched Effect (LE). LE is a manned-unmanned composite system that allows the attack helicopter to operate and control external projectiles directly. He stated, "The operational range, lethality, and survivability of attack helicopters will be significantly enhanced."

On Nov. 10, at the Rodriguez Training Ground in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province, the U.S. Forces Korea AH-64 Apache fires Hydra rockets during a joint live-fire training exercise. /Courtesy of Yonhap News.

Originally, South Korea earmarked 3.3 trillion won for the second large attack helicopter project. However, the U.S. State Department priced the sale of the Apache at around $3.5 billion (5 trillion won) last August. Director Jamieson mentioned, "This includes the total costs for training, armament systems, and parts that will be discontinued."

The Defense Acquisition Program Administration stated that it plans to proceed with follow-up procedures for the second large attack helicopter project by considering changes in the battlefield environment, financial situation, and review results from relevant agencies.

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