Busan: A P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, escorted by two F-15K fighter jets, soared through the skies above the southeastern port city of Busan, releasing 80 flares into the sea. This dramatic display marked the commencement of the first fleet review in seven years, celebrating the Navy’s 80th anniversary, the first established branch of South Korea’s military.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the fleet review highlighted the Navy’s latest and most advanced assets, including an 8,200-ton Aegis destroyer and a domestically developed 3,000-ton submarine. The Jeongjo the Great destroyer served as the command ship, leading a fleet of 30 warships and 18 aircraft. Unmanned systems, such as the V-BAT drone and an unmanned surface vehicle, also participated, showcasing the Navy’s technological advancements.
Following the initial display, the participating assets conducted a simulated anti-submarine operation, addressing hypothetical enemy threats. This exercise involved the P-8A, the MH-60R Seahawk, and the Lynx helicopter, demonstrating the Navy’s readiness and capability.
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back, alongside Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Kang Dong-gil, emphasized the critical role of maritime security for South Korea’s economy, which heavily relies on sea trade. Minister Ahn highlighted that maritime security is essential for national survival, given that 99.7 percent of the country’s trade occurs via sea routes.
Minister Ahn also stressed the necessity of integrating manned and unmanned systems in maritime operations, acknowledging the unique challenges of deploying these technologies at sea.
The fleet review, the sixth since the Navy’s founding in November 1945, aimed to engage the public and enhance awareness about maritime security and the nation’s vision for maritime strength. Initially scheduled for May, the event was postponed and scaled down due to political unrest following a failed martial law attempt by former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The last international fleet review was held off Jeju Island in 2018.