The U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed Tuesday that President Donald Trump has approved full U.S. support for South Korea’s nuclear-powered submarine program, marking a major shift in Washington’s policy on nuclear technology transfers.
Speaking after the 57th Security Consultative Meeting in Seoul, Hegseth said the initiative would “strengthen Korea’s national defense and the U.S.-Korea alliance.”
"President Trump wants allies to be strong, and the Republic of Korea is a model ally."
— One America News (@OANN) November 4, 2025
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth says the U.S. and South Korea are boosting defense cooperation, including maintaining and repairing U.S. warships in Korea to harness its shipbuilding power.… pic.twitter.com/zlbaPN1o8H
The submarines will reportedly be built at Hanwha Philly Shipyard in the United States, with oversight from multiple U.S. agencies, including the Departments of State and Energy.
South Korean Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back emphasized that Seoul remains committed to denuclearization under the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and will not pursue nuclear weapons.
Analysts view the move as a boost to deterrence against North Korea, but one likely to heighten concerns in China and Russia over an expanding regional arms race.
The agreement underscores Trump’s push for stronger allies with “greater and more advanced capabilities.”
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
