South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung has directed officials to expedite the country’s plan to procure nuclear-powered submarines. This decision comes in light of the escalating nuclear and missile threats posed by North Korea. The move aligns with a fact sheet released after a South Korea-US summit, where Washington supported Seoul’s efforts to build these submarines for defense purposes.
Lee emphasized the importance of incorporating artificial intelligence and drone technologies swiftly. He stressed the significance of nuclear-powered submarines as vital strategic assets for future defense capabilities. The envisioned submarines are seen as a symbol of South Korea’s commitment to ensuring peace and security on the Korean Peninsula independently.
During a defense strategy committee meeting, Defence Minister Ahn Gyu-back outlined the plan to launch the first batch of nuclear-powered submarines in the mid-2030s. Lee also highlighted the need for the prompt transfer of wartime operational control of South Korean troops from Washington to Seoul. This transfer is a key policy pledge of Lee, aiming to complete it by the end of his term in 2030.
Lee called for comprehensive efforts to modernize and enhance the country’s defense capabilities. He emphasized the need for a strong and advanced military force to navigate the challenging international landscape where power dynamics are crucial. Additionally, Lee underscored the importance of strengthening South Korea’s defense industry and fostering new companies to lead in robotics, drone, and space sectors.
