The Republic of Korea formally announced its decision to procure the F-35A Lightning II aircraft for its F-X fighter acquisition program in a statement on 24 March 2014. Following a comprehensive evaluation process for their F-X program, the Republic of Korea becomes the third country to procure the F-35 through the US Foreign Military Sales program. Israel selected the F-35A in 2010 and Japan chose the conventional takeoff and landing version of the Lightning II in 2011. Discussions between the Republic of Korea and U.S. governments are expected to lead to final agreement later in 2014. The F-35 program also currently includes participation from US Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, as well as eight international partner countries.
