ROKS Ahn Mu Silent Shark 2025: South Korea's 3,000-ton Submarine Completes Monthlong Drills with US

7,000 kilometers across the Pacific and back. The ROKS Ahn Mu, an indigenous 3,000-ton submarine built with homegrown technology, returned to port on Tuesday after a successful monthlong joint anti-submarine exercise with the United States.

According to the Navy, the submarine participated in the Silent Shark exercise, which kicked off on Nov. 18 in the waters off Guam. The mission's goal was to strengthen operational readiness and enhance interoperability between the two nations. This marks the first time a Korean-built 3,000-ton class submarine has taken part in a joint exercise overseas.

Operational Milestones of ROKS Ahn Mu Silent Shark 2025

During the drills, the Ahn Mu covered approximately 7,000 kilometers. The crew engaged in intense submarine detection and attack drills, as well as airborne anti-submarine warfare training. A notable first during the exercise was the hosting of a Canadian submariner aboard the Ahn Mu, signifying growing international interest in South Korea's naval platforms.

Geopolitical Significance and Export Prospects

Industry observers, as reported by Yonhap, suggest that the joint drill bolsters efforts to maintain security in the Indo-Pacific region. The presence of a Canadian officer is particularly relevant as South Korea eyes future submarine export bids. The exercise's success demonstrates the reliability of South Korean naval technology in deep-sea environments.