South Korea has taken measures to strengthen its defense capabilities by procuring an additional 20 F-35A stealth fighter jets from the United States, in response to growing military threats from North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. This decision comes amid heightened tensions in the Korean Peninsula.
South Korea’s Procurement
South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) confirmed the signing of a contract with the U.S. government earlier this month, following the U.S. government’s approval of the sale in September.
Lockheed Martin To Build The New Jets
The new fighter jets, built by Lockheed Martin, will supplement the 39 F-35As already in the possession of the South Korean Air Force.
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Enhanced Defense
Expected to be delivered in 2027, these 20 F-35As will provide the South Korean Air Force with advanced operational and security capabilities.
High Performance Radar and Stealth
The F-35A stealth fighter is a crucial asset, equipped with high-performance radar and stealth technology for strategic long-range missions.
Strengthening the “Three-Axis” Defense
South Korea’s acquisition of these fighter jets aligns with its strategy to reinforce its “three-axis” defense system, aimed at neutralizing North Korean leadership in a significant conflict.
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N. Korea’s Struggles
Despite North Korea’s larger fleet of fighter aircraft, their operational effectiveness is hampered by maintenance issues and a shortage of spare parts.
Escalating Tensions
This procurement decision comes amidst escalating tensions between South Korea and North Korea. Recent hints of North Korea testing a ballistic missile capable of reaching the U.S. mainland have raised concerns.
S. Korea Hinting At Potential Threat
Kim Tae-hyo, South Korea’s Principal Deputy National Security Adviser, alluded to this potential threat earlier in the month.
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UN Security Council Meeting
The situation further deteriorated as an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council was convened in response to North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launch.
“Most Dangerous Year”
This event strained relations between the U.S., South Korea, and their allies. North Korea’s U.N. Ambassador, Kim Song, characterized the current climate as the “most dangerous year” for security on the Korean Peninsula, attributing the risk of a “nuclear war” to increased U.S.-South Korean military activities and the deployment of U.S. nuclear assets.
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