Yecheon:Seoul Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) Chairman Gen. Jin Yong-sung conducted an inspection of the aerial defense posture aboard the indigenous KF-21 fighter jet during a visit to an Air Force unit on Wednesday. The visit was part of his evaluation of the operational capabilities of the South Korean Air Force.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Gen. Jin visited the 16th Fighter Wing in Yecheon County, located approximately 160 kilometers southeast of Seoul. During this visit, he commanded a formation flight that included both the KF-21 and FA-50 fighter jets. Gen. Jin emphasized to the pilots the importance of maintaining a deterrent posture and the capability to ensure "overwhelming" air superiority to respond to any contingencies swiftly.
In addition to the inspection of the fighter jet operations, Gen. Jin visited an Air Force unit responsible for reconnaissance of ballistic missile launches. He assessed the operational readiness of the Korea Air and Missile Defense (KAMD) system, highlighting its role as a "core asset" within the country's three-axis deterrence system. The KAMD is designed to detect and intercept ballistic and other missiles early to reduce potential damage.
The three-axis deterrence system also includes the Kill Chain preemptive strike system and the Korea Massive Punishment and Retaliation, an operational plan aimed at incapacitating the North Korean leadership in the event of a significant conflict. Gen. Jin stressed the importance of maintaining a constant early warning posture to detect any missile provocations quickly and effectively.