South Korea has deployed a new, domestically manufactured antibunker missile capable of targeting underground enemy facilities, according to the country’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). This move is part of South Korea’s efforts to counter the military threats posed by North Korea.
Enhanced Military Capabilities
The South Korean army has showcased its surface-to-surface tactical missile, known as the KTSSM, which is designed to carry out simultaneous precision attacks over a short period. This deployment is a direct response to North Korea’s long-range artillery capabilities, as stated by the JCS in a recent statement. The KTSSM, also referred to as “Ure” – the Korean word for thunder, has been developed to target North Korean long-range artillery that can be concealed in caves or tunnels, with a range of 180 kilometers.
Strategic Significance
Many of North Korea’s long-range artillery pieces are positioned within striking distance of Seoul, where nearly half of South Korea’s 51 million inhabitants reside. The deployment of the KTSSM equips the South Korean army with the overwhelming capability to completely destroy enemy targets in the event of a contingency, as emphasized by the JCS. This enhanced military capability is a crucial aspect of South Korea’s defense strategy, particularly in the context of the ongoing threats from North Korea.
The JCS has reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring North Korea’s military activities, maintaining a solid combined defense position with the United States, and upholding an overwhelming capacity to counter any potential threats from North Korea. By bolstering its military capabilities, South Korea aims to deter North Korean aggression and protect its sovereignty and security. As the region continues to navigate complex geopolitical dynamics, the deployment of the KTSSM represents a significant development in South Korea’s defense posture.