South Korea, US Conclude Naval Drills to Boost Joint Mine Warfare Capabilities
South Korean and US forces wrapped up a nine-day combined naval exercise near the southeastern city of Pohang, aimed at strengthening their joint mine warfare readiness, according to a statement from the South Korean Navy released Wednesday.
The drills involved 10 warships and three helicopters from both nations, featuring key assets such as South Korea’s Nampo MLS-II minelayer and the US Navy’s USS Warrior (MCM-10). “Through continued practical mine warfare training, we will bolster our capabilities to protect our major ports and maritime transportation routes in the event of a contingency,” said Capt. Lee Taeg-seon, commander of South Korea’s Mine Squadron 52.
The mine warfare exercise—launched in 2014—marked its 10th iteration this year. In addition to the drills near Pohang, the allies also held joint air exercises involving a US B-1B bomber and conducted separate naval drills off Changwon last week to enhance salvage and rescue capabilities in both wartime and peacetime scenarios.
