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Korea has decided to buy helicopters made by a European company over a competing bid
from a U.S. rival.
U.S. bidders are usually thought to have a competitive edge because of the close military
ties between the two countries, but this time around, the European model's competitive price
played a major role in Seoul's decision.
Heo Seung-ha reports.
The Wildcat, an Anglo-Italian helicopter made by AgustaWestland, has been chosen as the
Korean Navy's next multi-mission helicopter to combat ships and submarines.
The Wildcat is armed with up-to-date radar and sound detection systems, and can also
carry torpedoes and anti-ship missiles.
"The helicopter can effectively carry out anti-ship and anti-submarine operations. It
can also support anti-terrorism operations conducted by the UDT, which is the Korean
Navy's special-purpose force."
The announcement was made by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration spokesperson, who also
said that the helicopter, which costs some 70-billion won, or roughly 66-million U.S.
dollars, came out ahead of its U.S. competitor, the Seahawk, mainly because of its lower price.
The Wildcat was also recognized for its operational suitability, as it fits Korean navy's relatively
small-sized frigates.
But it can only carry half the weapons the Seahawk can, which lowers the effectiveness
of its anti-submarine operations... and not everyone is happy about the acquisition.
Shin In-kyun of the Korea Defence Network, which aims to boost Korea's military capability,
had this to say:
"The Korean Navy was supposed to buy aircraft that can carry out anti-submarine operations,
but they bought the Wildcat just because it's cheaper. Have they forgotten about the sinking
of the warship Cheonan?"
A total of 8 Wildcats will be deployed by 2016, and they will be loaded on the nation's
Aegis-equipped destroyers and frigates under the Navy's Future Frigate Experiment program.
Heo Seung-ha, Arirang News.