SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA - Former President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that the United States will share technology enabling South Korea to build its own nuclear-powered submarines. The move comes amid escalating military displays from North korea adn increasing naval capabilities within the region, including China’s existing nuclear submarine fleet.
This potential transfer of sensitive technology marks a significant shift in U.S. policy regarding nuclear submarine technology, traditionally closely guarded even among its closest allies. While the U.S. recently established a deal with the United Kingdom and Australia to assist Australia in acquiring nuclear submarine technology,that arrangement did not involve a direct transfer of U.S. knowledge. The decision to share with South Korea reflects growing concerns over North Korea‘s advancing weapons programs and aims to bolster security cooperation in the face of regional threats.
Trump made the declaration during a visit to South Korea, following north Korea’s unveiling in March of its first nuclear-powered submarine under construction – a system posing a potential security risk to both South Korea and the U.S. Just Wednesday, North Korea announced successful tests of cruise missiles, demonstrating its expanding military capabilities.
The Pentagon has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding Trump’s announcement.
The development occurs ahead of a planned meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, whose contry already possesses a nuclear submarine force. the U.S. has historically been extremely protective of its nuclear submarine technology, viewing it as a critical component of its national security.
