South Korea abandons F-35B in favour of drones in light aircraft carrier project
The South Korean Navy has updated its plan to build a light aircraft carrier, replacing F-35B fighters with combat drones.
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According to Chosun, the updated plan is aimed at increasing autonomy in defence technology and reducing dependence on US imports.
Instead of purchasing expensive F-35B fighter jets capable of vertical take-offs and landings, the new concept envisages the use of domestic drones for reconnaissance, surveillance and strike missions. This will significantly reduce costs, which in the original project were estimated at 7 trillion won (about $5.1 billion).
The original project, developed under Moon Jae-in's presidency under the name Multipurpose Large Amphibious Ship II, envisaged the construction of a 30,000-tonne aircraft carrier with a length of 260 metres by 2033. It was planned to deploy 20 F-35B fighter jets, but now they will be replaced by combat, reconnaissance and attack drones, including kamikaze drones. At the same time, airborne and attack helicopters will remain on board.
South Korean helicopter carrier LPH 6112 Marado. Illustration: Armed Forces of the Republic of Korea
The South Korean Navy explains the change in the plan by the development of unmanned technologies and new requirements for maritime operations. The updated platform will be a mobile force command ship capable of performing strike, amphibious, security and rescue missions.
The use of UAVs is expected to save several trillion won compared to the original design.
Source: Chosun
