South Korea plans to launch its first nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s, according to Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back and other officials. This new program is designed to counter North Korea's growing submarine-launched nuclear and missile threats, as reported by TimesLIVE, Reuters, and UPI. The submarines will use low-enriched uranium fuel and be developed domestically.
Key Takeaways
South Korea announced plans to launch its first nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s, aiming to counter North Korea's submarine-launched threats. The submarines will use low-enriched uranium fuel and be domestically developed.
- South Korea aims to launch its first nuclear-powered submarine by the mid-2030s
- Submarines will use low-enriched uranium fuel and be built in South Korea
- Program seeks to counter North Korea's submarine-launched threats
- South Korea will work closely with the U.S. on non-proliferation efforts
- Nuclear propulsion aims to extend underwater operational capabilities
The initiative aims to enhance South Korea's underwater operational capabilities significantly. Nuclear propulsion will allow the new submarines to stay submerged for extended periods, providing greater mobility than existing conventional submarines. According to government officials quoted by Reuters, this move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Seoul's defense posture and ensure regional security.
The program will leverage South Korea's nuclear, shipbuilding, and defense industries while maintaining its commitment not to acquire or develop nuclear weapons. As reported by TimesLIVE and Reuters, South Korea will collaborate closely with the United States to secure low-enriched uranium fuel and ensure compliance with non-proliferation agreements.
The announcement follows the successful Pacific deployment of the domestically built Dosan Ahn Chang-ho submarine, which demonstrated advanced operational capabilities. According to UPI, this success has shifted focus toward diplomatic negotiations and international coordination for the nuclear-powered submarine program.
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