South Korea 's acquisition of nuclear submarines could be considered in the future, says top US commander

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) - The introduction of nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) in South Korea could be considered in the future depending on its operational analysis, a top US military official said.

"From the standpoint of submarine warfare, I think it's important as allies and partners to find the most efficient and effective ways to combine our capabilities in ways that most effectively defend our alliances and partnerships," the chief of the US Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Samuel Paparo said, according to the South Korean President Office.

And if the operational analysis leads us to believe that, then we can move forward at a later date," Paparo added, while talking to South Korean journalists in Hawaii.

The debate over whether South Korea should possess SSNs has gained traction in recent years as North Korea has been doubling down on its pursuit of stronger naval capabilities, including underwater attack drones and submarine-launched ballistic missiles, the Seoul-based Yonhap News reported.

Terming the recent developments in North Korea "very concerning to everybody," Paparo said Washington continues to seek the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula "at all times."

Already heightened tensions in the Korean Peninsula have further aggravated in recent months following a string of missile tests and military drills involving the two arch-rivals and their allies.