What is the South Korean military chief doing to ensure naval readiness against North Korea?
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Synopsis
In a critical inspection, South Korea's top military official emphasizes the need for unwavering naval readiness to counter North Korean provocations. With advanced warships and surveillance aircraft at the forefront, the military remains vigilant amid rising tensions. The strategic moves are crucial for national security as North Korea escalates its military preparations.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's military chief emphasizes naval readiness.
- Inspection of ROKS Jeongjo the Great highlights advanced capabilities.
- Deployment of P-8A Poseidon enhances anti-submarine operations.
- North Korea's military drills raise security concerns.
- Preparation for potential conflict is a national priority.
Seoul, May 15 (NationPress) The highest military official in South Korea conducted an inspection of naval forces and the submarine command on Thursday, emphasizing the necessity of strong naval readiness to counter any provocations from North Korea, as per the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS).
Chairman of the JCS, Adm. Kim Myung-soo, made this call during his visit to the ROKS Jeongjo the Great destroyer and the submarine force command, along with the Jinhae Naval Base Command and the special warfare unit located in Jinhae, approximately 310 kilometers southeast of Seoul, according to the JCS.
Upon boarding the destroyer, Kim urged personnel to become well-acquainted with the warship’s combat systems and equipment, aiming to preemptively deter and effectively respond to the North’s nuclear and missile threats.
This 8,200-ton Aegis destroyer, equipped with an advanced missile interception system, was handed over to the Navy in November of the previous year and is anticipated to be operational by December.
During his visit to the submarine command, Kim instructed the unit to uphold a robust readiness stance in the face of potential provocations from the enemy, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
As part of his inspection, Kim also undertook a command flight on the P-8A Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft, according to the JCS. The Navy finalized the acquisition of six P-8As last year, with plans for deployment within the year. Known as the “submarine killer,” the P-8A is capable of performing a variety of missions, including anti-submarine, anti-surface, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations.
On the preceding Wednesday, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw combined tactical exercises focused on special operations, declaring that the most “crucial” objective for the North's military is to ensure full preparation for war.
These tactical drills involved a joint fire strike demonstration from tank subunits that occurred the day before. Kim remarked, “Our revolutionary armed forces are now responsible for numerous fronts, with the most significant being the anti-imperialist class front, making full preparations for war the utmost priority.”
He further added that the combat exercises will assist in transforming “the entire army into elite ranks.”
Images disseminated by state media depicted North Korean personnel in camouflage operating drones. South Korea's intelligence agency previously noted evidence of North Korean troops in Russia acquiring knowledge on drone operations and tactics from Moscow.
Last month, North Korea publicly acknowledged its deployment of troops to Russia to assist in combating Ukrainian forces. During a recent visit to the Russian Embassy in Pyongyang, Kim asserted that North Korea's involvement in the conflict was “justifiable,” characterizing it as an exercise of sovereign rights under a mutual defense treaty with Moscow.
Point of View
Our perspective is firmly aligned with the nation's commitment to ensuring security and readiness. The military's proactive stance, exemplified by the recent inspections and strategic acquisitions, reflects a necessary response to the evolving threats from North Korea. It's essential for the nation to remain vigilant and prepared, fostering a strong deterrent against any potential aggression.
NationPress
10/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the South Korean military chief's inspection?
The inspection was prompted by the need to ensure robust naval readiness to deter potential provocations from North Korea.
What is the significance of the P-8A Poseidon aircraft?
The P-8A is crucial for anti-submarine warfare and surveillance operations, enhancing South Korea's maritime capabilities.
How does North Korea's military activity affect South Korea?
Increased military activities from North Korea heighten tensions and necessitate South Korea's readiness to respond effectively.
What role does the ROKS Jeongjo the Great play?
The ROKS Jeongjo the Great is an advanced Aegis destroyer that enhances the Navy's capability to intercept missile threats.
Why is the inspection important for national security?
The inspection reinforces South Korea's commitment to maintaining a strong deterrent posture in the face of North Korean threats.
