The AUKUS partnership, established in 2021 to counter China’s growing military influence, is now exploring the possibility of sharing advanced military technology with South Korea, the United States, and Australia. This was discussed during meetings between South Korea and Australia’s defense and foreign ministers in Melbourne. Shin Won-sik, South Korea’s Defense Minister, expressed his welcoming attitude towards his country’s involvement in this partnership and believes that Korea’s defense science and technology capabilities will contribute to regional peace and stability through AUKUS Pillar 2.
The collaboration between these countries could extend to various security technologies such as artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and hypersonic systems. Japan is also in discussions to become a part of AUKUS Pillar 2 for technology development and sharing. Richard Marles, Australian Defense Minister, praised South Korea’s efforts to strengthen its ties with Japan and highlighted that this partnership represents a positive step forward in the strategic landscape of the region. He emphasized the importance of upholding the rules-based order within the region and the world through collaboration between these countries. The cooperation among these nations signifies a significant opportunity for mutual engagement and security enhancement.
