South Korea to Launch Nuclear Submarine by Mid‑2030s
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- South Korea will seek to launch its first nuclear‑powered submarine by the mid‑2030s, using low‑enriched uranium fuel and building it domestically.
- Ahn Gyu‑back, South Korea’s defence minister, said the programme will draw on the nation’s nuclear, shipbuilding and defence industries while maintaining a non‑nuclear‑weapon stance.
- United States will work closely with South Korea to secure low‑enriched uranium fuel and ensure non‑proliferation compliance.
- International Atomic Energy Agency will oversee the fuel procurement and non‑proliferation aspects of the project.
- North Korea continues to develop submarine‑launched nuclear and missile capabilities, as highlighted by The Hindu’s report of Kim’s vow to cement its nuclear status and a recent projectile launch.
Why it matters: South Korea gains a mid‑2030s nuclear‑submarine capability, strengthening its deterrence against North Korea’s missile threats, while the United States secures a non‑proliferation‑compliant partner; North Korea’s strategic edge narrows.
