South Korea reveals plan for first nuclear submarine by late 2030s

South Korea has officially unveiled its long-secret project to develop a nuclear-powered submarine, aiming to field the first vessel by the late 2030s. The "Jang Bogo N" initiative, named after Korea's first submarine, seeks to bolster naval capabilities against North Korea's growing submarine-based nuclear missile threat.

“

This will play a key role in countering North Korea’s submarine-based nuclear missile threat.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back presented the master plan, emphasizing that nuclear-powered submarines would create an "underwater kill chain." These vessels, capable of faster and more covert monitoring of North Korean forces than diesel-powered submarines, are seen as crucial for regional security. The military reportedly plans to build at least four such submarines, with hulls and propulsion systems to be constructed domestically.

The project faces considerable challenges, primarily the need for US cooperation to acquire nuclear fuel. Current atomic power agreements between the US and South Korea are limited to civilian use, necessitating a new agreement for enriched uranium for military purposes. This hurdle, along with technical deliberations, is expected to be complex.

“

will contribute to the creation of an underwater kill chain because they’re capable of monitoring and tracking North Korean submarine forces more quickly and secretly than diesel-powered submarines.

This public announcement marks a shift after 32 years of secret pursuit, dating back to 1994. The government aims to allay concerns about nuclear weapons proliferation and formalize the project. The biggest obstacle has historically been American apprehension that developing nuclear submarines could pave the way for South Korea to pursue its own nuclear weapons.

“

The nuclear-powered submarines will be developed and constructed in the Republic of Korea.