On Wednesday, November 13, South Korea will begin a three-day joint military exercise with the United States and Japan, aimed at addressing security challenges in the region, particularly from North Korea. The drills, named Freedom Edge, will involve an array of military assets, including fighter jets, maritime patrol aircraft, and the USS George Washington, a U.S. nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, according to South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS). This collaborative exercise comes in response to heightened tensions following North Korea’s recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test, which drew criticism from South Korea, Japan, and the United States. The joint drills are part of a broader strategy to strengthen defense partnerships in the face of perceived threats from North Korea. Additionally, the U.S. State Department recently reported that North Korean soldiers have been seen actively involved in Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, which further intensifies concerns regarding North Korea’s expanding international military engagements.

The JCS stated that alongside the USS George Washington, South Korean and Japanese fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft will participate in various activities over the three days. The Freedom Edge drills will include training in maritime missile defense and cyber defense, demonstrating a multifaceted approach to regional security challenges. These trilateral exercises follow a 2023 summit, where the leaders of South Korea, Japan, and the U.S. agreed to make joint training drills an annual fixture to promote regional stability. Historically, North Korea has denounced military exercises between the U.S. and South Korea, labeling them as rehearsals for an invasion. However, South Korea and the U.S. argue that these exercises are purely defensive in nature, aimed at preserving peace in the region and preparing for any contingencies.

The U.S. Air Force also announced a modernization initiative on Tuesday, which will include the phased retirement of its A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft, also known as the Warthog, from select regions, including South Korea, starting in the fiscal year 2025. The A-10, initially developed by the Fairchild Republic Company (now part of Northrop Grumman), has been a significant asset for U.S. ground attack missions. Its retirement reflects the U.S. military’s shift towards more advanced technologies and adaptable strategies in response to evolving global threats.

Through these exercises and defense upgrades, South Korea, Japan, and the United States are emphasizing their commitment to regional security and stability amidst escalating tensions and North Korea’s expanding missile capabilities.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from Reuters.