South Korea on Tuesday announced plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines to counter North Korea's submarine-based missile and nuclear threats.
In its statement, the South Korean Ministry of Defense (South Korea) said the first nuclear-powered submarine is expected to be launched in the mid-2030s and put into operation by the end of the decade.
The statement was South Korea's first official announcement on the project since President Lee Jae Myung asked US President Donald Trump for permission at an October summit to obtain supplies of nuclear submarine fuel.
"Nuclear-powered submarines have much superior operational capabilities compared to conventional diesel-electric submarines, including the ability to operate longer underwater and high maneuverability," the statement said.
It is also said that the submarine will play an important role in facing the threat of North Korea (North Korea).
South Korea will use low-enriched uranium as fuel. All the development and construction of the submarine will also be carried out domestically to ensure the independence and stability of procurement, maintenance, and repair.
In a previous cabinet meeting, Lee said South Korea must accelerate the use of artificial intelligence and drone technology, as well as continue to develop nuclear-powered submarines as a key strategic asset for future defense.
The defense ministry stressed that South Korea would not develop nuclear weapons.
South Korea confirmed that it would continue to fulfill its nuclear non-proliferation obligations during the procurement and management process of low-enriched uranium for propulsion systems, through close consultations with the US.
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