The United States has approved the potential sale of 36 Apache attack helicopters to South Korea.

According to the Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the deal is estimated at $3.5 billion.

Seoul has applied for the purchase of Apache helicopters in the AH-64E version from Washington.

The order includes 76 T700-GE-701D engines, 456 AGM-114R2 missiles, 152 AGM-179A air-to-ground missiles.

Among other items in order, 40 AAR-57 missile warning systems are also included.

“This agreement will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by strengthening the security of an important ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region,” reads the DSCA statement.

The agency notified the U.S. Congress of the potential deal, as the procedure requires its approval.

“The proposed sale will improve the Republic of Korea’s ability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force capable of deterring adversaries and participating in regional operations,” DSCA stated.

AGM-179A guided missiles provide Apache helicopters with the ability to destroy armored vehicles at a safe distance.

AGM-179 missiles are capable of engaging a target at a distance of 500 meters and can strike it at a distance of up to 8 kilometers.

AGM-114R2 air-to-ground missiles can be launched without direct visual contact with the target.

In August, the Polish government also signed a contract with the U.S. government to supply 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters.