The South Korean government was confirmed to have officially conveyed to the United States its wish to purchase 36 high-tech attack helicopters.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency under the U.S. Department of Defense informed Congress on Wednesday that South Korea requested the purchase of attack helicopters, including Apache Longbows and Cobras, as well as related parts.

The South Korean government will reportedly sign a purchase contract around December as part of its project to beef up its military capability.

Meanwhile, in a letter sent to Congress, the Pentagon said it is in the interest of the U.S. for South Korea to maintain its strong defense capability.