U.S. military deploys latest Apache helicopters in S. Korea

SEOUL, Sept. 20 (Yonhap) -- The United States has started deploying its latest
Apache attack helicopters in South Korea to strengthen its deterrent
capabilities, military sources here said Sunday.
The U.S. Department of Defense said earlier in the year that it will replace all
of its 24 AH-64D Block I Apaches in South Korea with more advanced types by year's
end. Under the plan, 5 to 6 new helicopters are to replace the older models at a
time every month.
The first batch of three new AH-64D Block II Apaches have recently been deployed
at Osan Airbase 55km south of Seoul, the sources said, requesting anonymity.
The Block IIs use an advanced target acquisition designation system that gives it
greater tracking and recognition abilities. Such capabilities are useful in
handling a greater number of targets more accurately at longer distances.
The Apaches, equipped with anti-tank Hellfire missiles, rockets and chain guns,
can effectively deter North Korea's armor formations in case of war, U.S. and
South Korean military officials said.
The U.S. military in South Korea originally operated three Apache battalions,
each with 24 machines, but two of them were taken out of the country in 2004 and
earlier this year.
There have been speculations that the only Apache battalion in South Korea may
also be withdrawn by 2012 after reinformements are made on the deployment of F-15
or F-16 fight-bombers.
yonngong@yna.co.kr
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