South Korea has confirmed its ongoing discussions to join the AUKUS defence partnership, specifically targeting the second tier of the pact, Pillar 2, which focuses on developing sophisticated military technologies such as hypersonic weapons, drones, and artificial intelligence.
Defence Minister Shin Won-sik highlighted, “We support AUKUS Pillar 2 activities and we do welcome that members are considering Korea as an AUKUS Pillar 2 partner.” The South Korean involvement is expected to leverage its formidable technological and defence capabilities, as evidenced by its successful development of the Vajra self-propelled gun and a homegrown jet fighter.
Similarly, Japan has shown a keen interest in aligning with AUKUS for Pillar 2 projects, underscoring its technological prowess with advanced submarines and aircraft. There is a real appetite for encouraging Japan to participate as a trusted collaborator with the US and Australia. This is demonstrated in the trilateral arrangements between them, as well as the quadrilateral ties with India, known as the Quad. Japan is also boosting its ties with the Philippines, South Korea and Britain.
New Zealand, known for its nuclear-free stance, is also considering participation in AUKUS, with a preference for Pillar 2. While the decision-making process appears to be in its early stages, Wellington acknowledges the growing security risks both in the Pacific and globally.
These geopolitical tensions, the AUKUS nations have expressed enthusiasm about the potential of expanding Pillar 2 collaborations. Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles commented on South Korea’s possible involvement, stating, “Korea is a country with deeply impressive technology where we do have shared values.”
The partnership’s expansion faces technical challenges, notably the strict U.S. restrictions on sharing military technology. However, recent moves by the U.S. State Department to relax these restrictions, with the aim of easing transfers of military gear and sensitive technology to Britain and Australia, hint at a concerted effort to overcome these hurdles and streamline cooperation.
AUKUS navigates these challenges and explores the inclusion of new partners, the dynamics within the Indo-Pacific region are poised for a shift.
Relevant articles:
– AUKUS In Talks With South Korea, Japan, New Zealand To Join , Strategic News Global, 05/01/2024
– First Japan, now South Korea confirms Aukus talks on joining defence pact, South China Morning Post, 05/01/2024
– South Korea discusses joining part of AUKUS pact with US, UK and Australia, Yahoo News Canada, 05/01/2024
– Seoul in talks to join AUKUS’ tech warfare program: Defense Minister, Al Mayadeen English, 05/01/2024