Recent remarks by the chief of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command regarding the potential introduction of nuclear-powered submarines in South Korea could signify a subtle yet significant shift in the U.S.’ stance, according to observers, Monday.
While this latest development could amplify calls for Seoul to acquire nuclear weapons, some military experts remain skeptical about whether the introduction of nuclear submarines is a feasible idea given the financial and diplomatic hurdles involved.
“From the perspective of submarine warfare, it is crucial for allies and partners to find the most efficient and effective ways to combine our capabilities to defend our alliances and partnerships,” Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo said during an interview with Korean reporters at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii on Thursday.
The Korean presidential office disclosed the full transcript of Paparo’s interview Sunday.
“If operational analysis leads us to conclude that, then we can consider moving forward at a later date. We should approach this as equals and progress accordingly,” Paparo said, responding to inquiries about the increasing calls within South Korea for the nation to possess its own nuclear arms, including nuclear-powered submarines.
Cheong Seong-chang, director of the Center for Korean Peninsula Strategy at the Seoul-based Sejong Institute, viewed this as a subtle change in the U.S. stance on Seoul obtaining its own nuclear weapons.
“Until now, the United States has sternly opposed South Korea possessing nuclear submarines. This marks the first time a current key military official has publicly shown a somewhat positive stance on the matter,” Cheong said.
The expert suggested that Paparo’s remarks could signal that U.S. officials may be starting to recognize the potential strategic benefits of South Korea having nuclear subs.
“From the U.S.’ perspective, the introduction of South Korean nuclear submarines would not only serve as a counterbalance to the increasing 커뮤니티 nuclear threats from North Korea that could target the U.S. mainland but also to China’s expanding naval capabilities,” Cheong said.
Since North Korea claimed to have launched its first-ever operational submarine, allegedly capable of launching nuclear-capable ballistic missiles, in September 2023, there have been growing calls for the South to bolster its naval capabilities, including nuclear options.
“We cannot rely solely on aircraft carriers to deter North Korea’s submarine threats, nor can conventional diesel submarines counter them effectively. Hence, nuclear submarines, with their higher speeds and enhanced stealth capabilities, are essential,” Cheong stressed.
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