South Korea prepares to send forces to Hormuz

South Korea has begun preparations for the possible dispatch of a navy support ship and Boeing P-8A Poseidon anti-submarine patrol aircraft to the Strait of Hormuz.

This was reported by Chosun Ilbo.

According to the publication, the government has prepared a plan for the deployment of naval forces, including a support ship and P-8A anti-submarine patrol aircraft. It is assumed that the proposal will be submitted for consideration to the National Security Council, after which it must be approved by the National Assembly.

The South Korean Navy has three Cheonji-class ships and one Soyang-class ship. Chosun Ilbo suggests that the Soyang may be chosen for the possible deployment. Its crew numbers about 140 people. The P-8A aircraft is capable of carrying up to 20 people, including eight crew members.

The exact scale of the possible deployment is currently being discussed as part of consultations between South Korea and the United States.

South Korea's Ministry of National Defense stated that the details of the possible dispatch of troops to the Strait of Hormuz are still being discussed.

The South Korean presidential administration stated that a final decision on sending armed forces to the Strait of Hormuz has not yet been made and that the issue continues to be considered.

Chosun Ilbo recalls that for the deployment of forces abroad, the corresponding plan must be submitted to the National Security Council and approved by the National Assembly.

The exact timing of the plan's submission to the National Security Council is not yet known. At the same time, it is assumed that this could happen within two weeks.

The publication notes that the decision may be made under pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.