Seoul: South Korea is poised to announce its strategy for acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, as sources indicate a desire to accelerate negotiations with the United States, which have seen little advancement.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the announcement follows a period of stagnation in discussions between the two allies, despite an agreement reached during summit talks between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump in October. The U.S. had committed to support South Korea's submarine acquisition efforts, but subsequent talks have not progressed significantly.
South Korea's planned road map will detail the defensive objectives and international obligations of the nuclear submarine project, along with a timeline for its development. Reports suggest President Lee will make the announcement by the end of the month. A defense ministry official noted ongoing efforts to develop a framework plan in collaboration with relevant entities.
The joint fact sheet from the October summit showed U.S. approval for South Korea to construct nuclear-powered attack submarines, with promises of assistance in meeting project requirements, including fuel sourcing. This move aligns with Washington's intent to revitalize its shipbuilding industry and strengthen its partnership with South Korea, a key player in the global shipbuilding market.
However, the absence of progress in trade discussions, another summit focus, has hindered negotiations. Additional tensions have arisen from Washington's dissatisfaction with Seoul's management of a significant data breach involving Coupang Inc., further straining relations.
In a recent visit to Washington, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back sought support from Hung Cao, acting secretary of the U.S. Navy, for the submarine project. Nuclear-powered submarines, capable of extended submersion and faster speeds than diesel ones, are considered crucial military assets. South Korea is evaluating the construction of at least four 5,000-ton-class nuclear submarines post-2030s, alongside legislation for military nuclear energy management.