U.S., South Korea to hold drills assuming nuclear use by North Korea to strengthen defense capabilities through “realistic scenario”

U.S., South Korea to hold drills assuming nuclear use by North Korea to strengthen defense capabilities through “realistic scenario”
Press conference (from right) U.S. Secretary of Defense Austin, Secretary of State Blinken, and South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Yong-yeong, October 31, Washington (Kyodo)

The U.S. and South Korean governments have decided to include “realistic scenarios” in future joint military exercises in response to North Korea’s use of nuclear weapons. This was clearly stated in a joint statement after the Regular Security Consultations (SCM) held on October 30 near Washington. As North Korea increases its nuclear threat, the aim is to increase its defense and deterrence capabilities by conducting exercises based on specific scenarios.

Secretary of Defense Austin said at a press conference on the 31st after the U.S.-South Korea Foreign and Defense Ministerial Talks (2+2), “I won’t reveal the details, but we are constantly reviewing our plans and preparing to fight tonight, depending on the situation.” He emphasized.

North Korea tested an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on the 31st local time, and has stated that it remains unchanged in strengthening its nuclear forces to counter the United States and South Korea. The United States and South Korea revised their deterrence strategy against North Korea for the first time in 10 years in the SCM last November. It said it would deal with nuclear weapons and leverage military power, including the United States’ nuclear capabilities. (joint)

Source: Japanese