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US Conducts Precision-guided Bombing Drill with South Korea Amid Rising Tensions
The US conducted its first precision-guided bombing drill with South Korea in seven years amid rising tensions with North Korea.
B-1B Lancers depart for Bomber Task Force missions in USAFE (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mercedes Bizzotto)
The United States conducted a precision-guided bombing drill with South Korea over the Korean Peninsula on Wednesday, marking the first such exercise in seven years, according to the South Korean military. The drill, involving a long-range B-1B bomber and advanced fighter jets from both countries, was viewed as a display of strength in response to escalating tensions stemming from North Korea's recent provocations.
The training session included the deployment of Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) by the B-1B bomber, escorted by South Korean fighter jets. This marked the first time a US bomber conducted such a bombing drill since 2017, demonstrating the commitment to South Korea's security and reinforcing joint defense capabilities, as stated by the South Korean Defense Ministry.
JDAM bombs, known as "bunker-busters," are equipped with a guidance system that enhances accuracy, converting conventional bombs into GPS-guided weapons. The use of such munitions underscores the readiness of South Korea to respond decisively to any provocation from North Korea.
North Korea has historically been sensitive to drills involving bunker-buster bombs, which could pose a threat to its leadership and extensive network of underground military facilities. The deployment of B-1B bombers has been met with criticism from North Korea, viewing it as evidence of US hostility.
In recent weeks, tensions between North and South Korea have escalated, with North Korea conducting provocative actions, including launching rockets and allegedly jamming GPS signals in South Korea. These actions have prompted South Korea to suspend a military deal with North Korea and vow to take retaliatory measures.
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The suspension of the 2018 inter-Korean deal allows South Korea to resume military activities, including live-fire drills and anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts. However, such actions are expected to elicit further provocations from North Korea, exacerbating the already tense situation on the Korean Peninsula.
Despite ongoing efforts to resume nuclear disarmament negotiations between Pyongyang and Washington, progress has been limited since 2019. North Korea's accelerated missile tests indicate its intent to bolster its nuclear arsenal, heightening concerns among the international community regarding regional stability and security.
