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S. Korean Army to Equip All Soldiers with Drone Skills by 2030

From Hankyoreh · (5m ago) Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The South Korean Army plans to equip all soldiers with drone operation capabilities by 2030.
  • This initiative is part of a broader plan to develop a "500,000 drone warriors" force, integrating drones into all levels of military operations.
  • The army aims to expand drone deployment from key facilities to squad-level units and enhance drone capabilities for surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions.

The South Korean Army is set to revolutionize its combat capabilities by integrating drone technology at an unprecedented scale, with a strategic goal of ensuring every soldier possesses drone operation skills by 2030. This ambitious vision, articulated by Army Chief of Staff Gen. Kim Gyu-ha, positions drones not merely as specialized equipment but as personal weaponry, akin to a rifle, to be wielded proficiently by all combatants. This forward-thinking approach reflects a deep understanding of modern warfare's evolving landscape, where unmanned aerial systems are increasingly critical for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike operations.

Drones will be considered personal weapons in the future, and we will ensure that all soldiers can operate them freely.

— Gen. Kim Gyu-haStating the army's vision for drone integration.

Gen. Kim's announcement during a policy briefing underscores the army's commitment to developing a robust drone force, aiming to cultivate "500,000 drone warriors." This initiative involves establishing drone units across all echelons of the army, with plans to equip battalion-level units with self-detonation and reconnaissance drones. The expansion strategy is phased, starting with forward bases and critical infrastructure, and progressing to small unit integration by 2027, culminating in universal drone operational proficiency by the end of the decade.

The army's focus extends beyond mere operation; it encompasses the development of advanced drone applications. Gen. Kim highlighted that drones will be utilized not only for surveillance and reconnaissance but also for strike missions and sustained support operations. This comprehensive integration acknowledges the "game-changing" potential of drone technology and the need for a corresponding evolution in military doctrine and training.

Drones will be developed not only for surveillance and reconnaissance but also for strike missions and sustained support operations.

— Gen. Kim Gyu-haDescribing the expanded roles of drones in future combat.

To support this massive undertaking, the army plans to procure approximately 50,000 training drones by 2029. This investment in training infrastructure is crucial for realizing the "500,000 drone warriors" objective, ensuring that soldiers receive adequate instruction and practice. The army is also exploring the integration of AI-based surveillance systems at forward posts, aiming to reduce manpower requirements in the long term, with Gen. Kim projecting potential reductions in border guard personnel by 2040. This strategic foresight demonstrates the army's commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced operational efficiency and force modernization.

We are approaching the realization of our goals for 2028-2030. We must develop South Korea's drone operational capabilities and doctrine.

— Gen. Kim Gyu-haHighlighting the progress and need for doctrinal development in drone warfare.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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