Seoul: The U.S. military has clarified that there are no "current" plans to permanently deploy F-35A fighters to South Korea, a spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force stated. This announcement comes amid ongoing reports suggesting that the U.S. is contemplating the permanent stationing of these advanced aircraft at its Kunsan Air Base, located 275 kilometers south of Seoul.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the potential deployment of F-35As to Kunsan Air Base would significantly bolster the U.S. Air Force's capabilities in South Korea, complementing the existing fleet that consists of older-generation jets. The U.S. Air Force spokesperson emphasized, "There are no current plans to permanently assign U.S. F-35As at Kunsan Air Base," in response to inquiries.
The possibility of permanently stationing F-35As in South Korea remains uncertain, as no definitive decision has been reached. In the past, U.S. F-35 jets have been temporarily deployed to South Korea for joint air exercises, highlighting the ongoing military collaboration between the two nations.
South Korea currently operates 39 F-35As and has outlined plans to acquire an additional 20 units, further strengthening its own air defense capabilities.