Changwon: South Korea aims to develop domestically built nuclear-powered attack submarines fueled by low-enriched uranium and plans to launch the first vessel in the mid-2030s, Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back announced.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Ahn unveiled the road map for the submarine program, known as "Jang Bogo N," as Seoul moves forward with the project following U.S. consent during a summit last October. The initiative seeks to develop and operationalize the submarines in South Korea by the late 2030s.
Ahn emphasized the strategic importance of nuclear-powered submarines in countering North Korea's threats, highlighting their extended submersion capabilities and enhanced mobility. The submarines will use low-enriched uranium, enriched to less than 20 percent, for fuel.
The U.S. has agreed to support South Korea in advancing the submarine program, as outlined in a joint summit agreement. While the submarines are to be built domestically, discussions on construction sites may arise, as U.S. President Donald Trump suggested potential construction at a Philadelphia shipyard operated by South Korea's Hanwha Ocean Co.
Ahn reiterated South Korea's commitment to international nonproliferation obligations, assuring compliance with the International Atomic Energy Agency and affirming that the project aligns with the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. His remarks aimed to alleviate concerns regarding South Korea's nuclear ambitions.
The announcement marks a significant step in South Korea's defense strategy, an effort tracing back to the early 1990s, with nuclear-propelled submarines offering a critical military advantage due to their speed and submersion capabilities.