COMMENTARY / World

Does South Korea need an aircraft carrier?

While one camp says it’s too extravagant, the other is pointing in the direction of China

The Izumo, Japan’s de facto aircraft carrier, is moored at the MSDF’s Yokosuka base south of Tokyo in March 2015. South Korea’s navy has long sought its own carrier, especially at a time when China is flexing its maritime military muscle. | REUTERS

By Robert E. Kelly
Contributing writer

Jun 16, 2022

South Korea has considered in the last year constructing a light aircraft carrier.

Known as the CVX program, the controversial discussion to build a carrier or not has swung back and forth.

Critics have contended that it was strategically unnecessary and expensive. North Korea is South Korea’s primary opponent and the North is weak at sea and in the air, the primary vectors of carrier power. Ally America also provides South Korea substantial coverage in these areas.

Does South Korea need an aircraft carrier?

While one camp says it’s too extravagant, the other is pointing in the direction of China

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