KOR-UAE Joint Training to be Conducted Next Month in UAE

Expectations for Enhanced Joint Operational Capabilities with Allied Nations
Consideration for Expanding Defense Exports

The Ministry of National Defense announced on the 20th that from February 10 to 20, a joint exercise involving the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Republic of Korea Army, Navy, and Marine Corps will be conducted.

This joint exercise will take place at the Al Hamra training ground in the UAE and off the coast of Abu Dhabi. The Army will deploy 14 pieces of equipment including K2 tanks and K9 self-propelled howitzers along with company-level troops, the Navy will participate with one landing ship, the Cheonjabong (LST-II, 4,900 tons), and the Marine Corps will send platoon-level troops.

During this joint exercise, the Army will conduct tank and artillery live-fire drills and combined field maneuvers, the Navy will perform tactical maneuvers and helicopter landing and takeoff cooperative training, and the Marine Corps will carry out combat training at an urban area simulation training ground. Notably, exercises such as firing at the maximum effective range of the K2 tank and firing at the maximum rate of the K9 howitzer, which are difficult to experience domestically, will also be conducted.

This is the second joint exercise using K-weapon systems with Middle Eastern countries, following last year’s exercise in Qatar. According to the Ministry of National Defense, this exercise will not only enhance the ability to conduct joint operations with allied countries but also contribute to expanding defense exports. A UAE defense industry exhibition will also be held during the exercise period.

Meanwhile, to participate in this joint exercise, the Navy’s Cheonjabong ship departed from the military port in Jinhae, Gyeongnam, around 10 a.m. today. Onboard the Cheonjabong are not only the Army’s equipment and troops participating in the exercise but also Marine Corps personnel, who will familiarize themselves with the operational procedures of the Navy and Marine Corps.

The Ministry of National Defense stated, "We plan to continue expanding joint exercises with allied countries to strengthen joint operational capabilities and promote the excellence of K-weapon systems, thereby contributing to national interests such as expanding defense exports."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.