South Korea’s Navy will launch a task force dedicated to nuclear-powered submarines starting May 1 as part of efforts to build a personnel training and education system for future operations, officials said Tuesday.
According to the Navy, the task force will be headed by a general-level officer and staffed by around 30 personnel.
The push to introduce nuclear-powered submarines has gained momentum following the South Korea-US summit in Gyeongju last year.
Separately, the government is currently running an interagency task force involving the Foreign Ministry and the Defense Ministry, among others, to review various options for the design, construction and introduction of nuclear-powered submarines. Discussions with the US on issues including nuclear fuel supply are also expected to begin soon.
The Navy’s new organization appears to be focused on practical preparations for actual operations after the submarines are introduced, including workforce training and the establishment of an operational system, separate from the broader government-level review process.
“The Navy will, in connection with the future progress of the pan-government project, establish systems for personnel development, education and training, and draw up mid- to long-term plans such as maintenance and safety guidelines,” the Navy said.
cheesuk@heraldcorp.com
