Image Credit: X @WhiteHouse
US Grants South Korea Approval to Build Nuclear-Powered Submarine
In a major policy shift, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Washington has granted South Korea approval to build a nuclear-powered submarine. The announcement came during his visit to Seoul, where he met with South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung. This marks a significant departure from the traditional U.S. stance of restricting allied access to nuclear-propulsion technology.
Key Terms of the Deal
South Korea had pressed for nuclear-propulsion capability, citing the limitations of its diesel-powered fleet in countering Chinese and North Korean submarines. Trump confirmed that approval has been given and suggested the submarine could be constructed at a U.S. shipyard. The agreement reportedly includes additional trade and energy components tied to defence cooperation.
Strategic and Technical Challenges
Granting South Korea nuclear-submarine capability places it among a select group of nations with such technology. However, the deal faces hurdles, including strict controls on nuclear fuel, technical challenges for South Korea’s shipbuilding industry, and scrutiny under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
Regional Impact
The move is expected to shift the strategic balance in the Indo-Pacific. While it strengthens the U.S.–South Korea alliance against regional threats, it is likely to trigger concerns in Beijing and Pyongyang. Analysts suggest the decision could lead to heightened naval competition in the region.
