US and South Korea Launch Pact to Maintain US Army Chinook Helicopters Locally

The United States and South Korea have launched a new agreement to carry out Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) for US Army CH-47 Chinook helicopters directly in South Korea. This move is designed to improve the combat readiness of US forces stationed on the Korean Peninsula while also boosting South Korea’s defense industry.

This pilot program will allow local South Korean defense firms to handle critical maintenance work for the Chinooks used by the US Army’s 3rd General Support Aviation Battalion, which is part of the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade under the 2nd Infantry Division. These helicopters are stationed at Camp Humphreys, in Pyeongtaek, which is the largest overseas US military base.

The Chinook helicopters, operated by the battalion nicknamed “Nightmare”, play a vital role in transporting troops and cargo, conducting joint drills, and executing rapid response missions. By servicing these helicopters locally, both countries aim to reduce downtime, increase operational efficiency, and deepen military cooperation.

Though the specific companies involved in the MRO tasks haven’t been officially announced, Hanwha Aerospace has emerged as a strong potential partner. According to Yonhap News, Hanwha is currently the only company in South Korea with the right combination of technical know-how and certified facilities to handle the Chinook’s T55 turboshaft engines.

Hanwha Aerospace, in a LinkedIn post, welcomed the move to establish South Korea as a regional hub for Chinook engine maintenance. The company called the agreement a strategic milestone for both nations under the Pentagon’s regional sustainment framework, which aims to create stronger MRO networks with US allies around the world.

Hanwha’s Changwon facility already holds multiple international certifications, including from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The company stated it would leverage its 46 years of experience to support the alliance and expand its footprint in the global MRO business.

In fact, Hanwha’s capabilities extend beyond aircraft. Its maritime division has recently overhauled several US Navy Military Sealift Command ships, including the USNS Wally Schirra, and secured new contracts for the USNS Yukon and USNS Charles Drew in 2025.

This MRO pact is part of a larger US strategy announced last year to expand logistics and sustainment capabilities in key regions. By localizing helicopter maintenance, the US not only strengthens ties with Seoul but also ensures faster turnaround times and lower operational costs, which are crucial in a high-tension region like East Asia.

Overall, this agreement signals a deepening of US-South Korea defense cooperation, with mutual benefits for both countries’ military readiness and industrial growth.