February20, 2007:
South Korea is buying another twenty modern fighters, for $120
million each. While South Korea has already bought 40 F-15K (a variant of the
F-15E) for $115 million each, they are examining the Russian SU-30, European
Eurofighter and French Rafale. This is partly to show the Americans that they
do not have a lock on additional F-15K sales. So far, 18 F-15Ks have been delivered,
and the South Korean air force is happy with them. But if other contenders come
in with an offer they can't refuse, South Korea will seriously consider it. The
decision will be made by next January, for aircraft to be delivered within two
years.