Underwater power play: US sends stealth nuclear submarine to Korean waters

In a striking show of allied force against nuclear threats, the U.S. deployed a nuclear-armed ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), the USS Kentucky, to South Korea for the first time since the 1980s, amidst the inauguration of the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG).

This move follows the escalating tensions in the region, particularly after North Korea’s intercontinental ballistic missile test last week.

The rare visit of the Ohio class SSBN was confirmed by the White House Indo-Pacific coordinator, Kurt Campbell, during the first NCG discussion in Seoul. This group aims to strengthen the coordination of an allied nuclear response if North Korea incites a war. The establishment of the NCG was revealed during the recent summit between South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden.

Despite North Korea’s warnings against the display of military force, Kurt Campbell affirmed that the submarine’s visit was a testament to America’s commitment to South Korea’s defense. SSBNs, known as “boomers”, are rarely seen making public stops in foreign ports due to their strategic role in launching nuclear missiles during a war.

Historic naval move: US strengthens alliance with South Korea through nuclear submarine deployment. Photo courtesy of David Mark from Pixabay.

This visit to Busan is not only a significant strategic move but also part of a larger commitment by the U.S. to deploy more assets such as aircraft carriers, long-range bombers, and submarines to South Korea as a deterrent against North Korea’s developing missile capabilities.

The NCG discussions co-chaired by South Korea’s Principal Deputy National Security Adviser, Kim Tae-hyo, resulted in an agreement for better information sharing, establishing a secure communication network, and enhanced coordination in case of a North Korean nuclear attack. They also vowed to develop various deterrent and response measures, including “operations, exercises, simulations, trainings, and investment activities” on the Korean Peninsula.

South Korea President Yoon Suk Yeol stated that the NCG would provide a robust and efficient deterrent against North Korea’s threats, paving the way for a stronger South Korea-U.S. alliance. However, both China and North Korea have criticized this as exacerbating tensions on the Korean peninsula.

When asked about South Korea’s involvement in U.S. decision-making, an anonymous senior U.S. administration official clarified that the NCG was more about transparency and communication. The goal was to provide South Korea with more insight into the defensive and deterrent strategies of the United States.