Did South Korea and the US Complete All Joint Field Training Drills Postponed from August?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, the South Korean military has announced the completion of all joint field training drills with the US that were postponed from August. This decision marks a crucial step in maintaining military readiness and improving inter-Korean relations under President Lee Jae Myung's administration.
Key Takeaways
- Joint drills between South Korea and the US were successfully completed.
- Rescheduled due to a heat wave and other factors.
- 22 out of 40 planned drills were accomplished.
- Exercises included a variety of tactical and recovery operations.
- Efforts are being made to mend relations with North Korea.
Seoul, Dec 29 (NationPress) The military of South Korea announced on Monday that it has successfully carried out all joint field training exercises with the United States, which had been deferred from their original schedule in August as part of the yearly Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) initiative.
In a statement released to the media, the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) confirmed the completion of 22 out of approximately 40 field drills that were postponed.
"In order to maintain a well-rounded military readiness throughout the year and to create optimal training conditions, we have rescheduled and accomplished 22 of the nearly 40 joint drills by year’s end," the JCS stated.
The significant drills that have been concluded encompassed collaborative tactical airborne insertion exercises, personnel recovery missions, equipment maintenance support training, and live-fire drills, as reported by the JCS.
Additionally, two exercises, including those focused on airport damage recovery, were executed exclusively by the South Korean forces, according to Yonhap news agency.
The allies had previously opted to delay the field training exercises partially, attributing the decision to several factors, including a heat wave and the advantage of distributing these drills throughout the year for improved readiness.
However, there is speculation that the postponement of some field drills was a conciliatory move aligned with the administration of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, aimed at repairing strained inter-Korean relations.
On October 14, the military forces of South Korea and the United States had conducted only five out of approximately 20 scheduled field training drills in September after shifting them from August as part of the annual UFS.
Initially, the allies had decided to delay around half of the planned 40 field training exercises set for August by a month, citing the ongoing heat wave.
Nevertheless, only five out of the 20 planned field drills for September were conducted, as noted in a report provided by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to Rep. Kang Dae-sik of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP).
Point of View
This announcement reflects a strategic approach by the South Korean administration to enhance military preparedness while simultaneously seeking to improve relations with North Korea. The successful conclusion of these drills is crucial for maintaining regional stability and showcases the enduring alliance between South Korea and the United States.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the postponement of the field training drills?
The postponement was due to multiple factors, including a heat wave and a strategy to enhance military readiness throughout the year.
How many drills were completed after rescheduling?
A total of 22 out of approximately 40 postponed drills were completed by the end of the year.
What types of drills were included in this training?
The drills included tactical airborne insertion exercises, personnel recovery operations, equipment maintenance support training, and live-fire exercises.
Was any of the training conducted solely by South Korea?
Yes, two exercises, including airport damage recovery drills, were conducted exclusively by the South Korean military.
What is the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise?
The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise is an annual military drill conducted by South Korea and the United States to enhance their readiness and cooperative defense capabilities.
