US-South Korea Pact to Develop Nuclear 'Attack' Submarines: Implications and Concerns

Sun Nov 16 2025 03:22:23 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

South Korea finalizes a landmark agreement with the United States to develop nuclear-powered submarines amidst rising tensions in the region. The deal aims to enhance South Korea's defense capabilities against North Korea's nuclear ambitions.

In a significant military collaboration, South Korea and the United States have reached an agreement to build nuclear-powered attack submarines as concerns grow over North Korea's nuclear capabilities. The deal, which includes sourcing nuclear fuel, marks a shift in South Korea's military strategy, highlighting its need for advanced defense systems in a confrontational geopolitical context. This move may escalate tensions on the Korean Peninsula but aims to strengthen South Korea's defense posture.

US-South Korea Pact to Develop Nuclear 'Attack' Submarines: Implications and Concerns

29 minutes ago

Jake Kwon,Seoul and

Gavin Butler,Singapore

File photo of a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine

South Korea's government has announced that it has finalized an agreement with the United States to build nuclear-powered submarines. This partnership aims to enhance South Korea's defense capabilities amid rising tensions with North Korea and China.

The deal, which encompasses nuclear fuel sourcing and cooperation, represents a significant shift in military strategy for South Korea. It aims to bolster defenses against the rapidly evolving military threats posed by North Korea's ambitions to develop its nuclear submarine capabilities.

Only six nations currently possess nuclear-powered submarines, marking this agreement as a crucial step in South Korea's military modernization. While South Korea currently operates diesel-powered submarines, the new nuclear submarines will provide greater range, endurance, and stealth capabilities.

What's in the Agreement?

The US-South Korea agreement comes after a recent trade deal that reduced tariffs between the two countries. US President Donald Trump recently confirmed on social media that the new submarines would be constructed at a South Korean-owned shipyard, highlighting the intention to manage local manufacturing despite current logistical constraints.

Strategic Motivations and Concerns

With the development of nuclear submarines, South Korea aims to effectively counter North Korea's military posturing. Reports indicate that North Korea is also pursuing a nuclear submarine program, which underscores the importance of South Korea advancing its own capabilities.

Experts speculate on the potential regional fallout, noting that while these submarines will enhance South Korea's deterrent capabilities, they could also exacerbate tensions with North Korea, with analysts fearing that such developments may lead to an arms race in Northeast Asia.

The Broader Geopolitical Context

The agreement between the US and South Korea is viewed as a move to counter growing Chinese influence in the region. Observers believe Beijing will respond critically to this military alliance, likely further elevating the geopolitical stakes in East Asia.