A US Navy nuclear-powered submarine carrying cruise missiles has arrived in South Korea, in what is being seen as a show of strength and deterrence amid growing threats from North Korea.
The USS Alexandria, a Los Angeles-class attack submarine, docked at Busan Naval Base on Monday, according to South Korea’s Yonhap news agency.
The US military has stated that the vessel’s visit is for resupply and crew rest, but it will also include joint activities with the South Korean Navy, reinforcing military cooperation between the two allies.
The USS Alexandria is a fast-attack submarine designed to track and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships, conduct covert surveillance, and carry out precision strikes. The vessel is armed with Harpoon anti-ship missiles and Tomahawk cruise missiles.
The duration of its stay has not been disclosed.
Strengthening US-South Korea Military Ties
The arrival of the USS Alexandria comes at a time of heightened military activity in the region. Just days ago, South Korea activated a new naval command made up of Aegis-equipped destroyers, designed to counter ballistic missile threats from North Korea.
The US has steadily increased military cooperation with South Korea in response to Pyongyang’s continued missile tests and nuclear ambitions.
The docking of a nuclear-powered submarine serves as a clear message of the US commitment to its ally and a warning to potential adversaries in the region.
