(Bloomberg, Seoul) U.S. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Admiral John Cowdell said the United States hopes South Korea will eventually deploy its newly approved nuclear-powered submarines to help counter China's rapidly expanding fleet, calling it a responsibility as a key U.S. ally.
"I think it's a natural expectation of a capability to use these types of submarines to counter China," Cowdell said in Seoul on Friday (November 14).
He emphasized that South Korea has a responsibility to deploy these submarines globally, evolving from a regional navy to a global navy.
Cowdell noted that this is a "historic moment" for both countries, but he also acknowledged that the process "will not be completed quickly."
Earlier on Friday, the U.S. and South Korea announced the formal finalization of a Joint Situation Statement, which included U.S. approval for South Korea to build nuclear-powered submarines.
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While this is a significant victory for South Korea, which has long sought nuclear-powered submarines, Cowdell's remarks also revealed differences in the US and South Korea's vision for the project. South Korea hopes these submarines will deter North Korea.
Cowdell pointed out that North Korea's naval capabilities are currently considered a regional threat, not a direct threat to the United States. Although Pyongyang is committed to developing submarine-launched ballistic missiles, he noted that it will take time for Pyongyang to develop a reliable capability in this area.
According to sources, the US and South Korea appear to still have disagreements on issues such as the location and type of submarines to be built, and whether the US will receive some submarines for free. The two countries also need to revise or coordinate their nuclear energy agreement, as the existing agreement prohibits South Korea from using nuclear fuel for military purposes. Potential legal and policy obstacles may cause concerns for both sides.
The discussions regarding the construction of new submarines by the US and South Korea come at a delicate time for South Korea, as President Lee Jae-myung seeks to improve relations with China. Last month, Chinese President Xi Jinping made his first visit to South Korea in 11 years, further indicating a willingness to deepen communication and cooperation with South Korea.
