South Korea Defense Reform 2026: Ahn Gyu-back Vows 'Overwhelming Power' and Nuclear Subs
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back unveiled the South Korea Defense Reform 2026, focusing on nuclear submarines, 500,000 drone warriors, and an independent Marine Corps command.
"Peace and dialogue must be based on overwhelming power." Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back set a stern tone for national security during a policy briefing on January 19, 2026. According to Yonhap, Ahn called for a "bone-cutting" reform within the military to ensure a robust defense posture, aiming to hand down a well-prepared force to the next generation 15 years from now.
South Korea Defense Reform 2026: Nuclear Subs and Drone Swarms
At the heart of the South Korea Defense Reform 2026 is the ambitious project to build nuclear-powered submarines. Ahn urged the Navy to prepare thoroughly for what he described as a "core" national strategic project. Simultaneously, the ministry is fast-tracking the "500,000 drone warriors" initiative. This includes securing 11,265 drones manufactured primarily with homegrown materials to modernize warfare capabilities for conscripts.
Empowering the Marine Corps for Independent Operations
The administration under President Lee Jae Myung is pushing for a structural overhaul to grant the Marine Corps greater autonomy. Plans are underway to form a task force with the Joint Chiefs of Staff to transfer operational control of two Marine divisions from the Army. This shift involves revising the armed forces organization law to establish an independent operations command for the Marines.
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