The Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) said the decision was approved during the 179th Defense Acquisition Program Promotion Committee meeting, which endorsed the basic acquisition strategy for the Jang Bogo N project, also known as KSS-III Batch-III.
The program aims to develop nuclear-powered submarines with greater underwater endurance, mobility and operational capabilities than conventional diesel-electric submarines, with deployment targeted for the late 2030s or beyond.
The exemption removes a feasibility review that typically takes one to two years and is required for major weapons acquisition programs.
DAPA said the exemption was granted under provisions allowing highly classified defense projects to bypass the standard review process. A separate in-depth assessment will still be conducted.
The agency also decided to select the submarine's main contractor through competitive bidding among domestic shipbuilders rather than a sole-source contract.
However, key components, including the small modular reactor (SMR) that will power the submarine and certain missile systems, will be developed or acquired separately by the government and supplied to the selected shipbuilder.
DAPA said domestic shipbuilders had demonstrated sufficient submarine design and construction capabilities to justify competitive bidding.
The total project cost was not disclosed due to the program's security requirements.
The nuclear-powered submarine program is part of South Korea's broader effort to strengthen its ability to counter North Korea's growing nuclear and missile threats.
Unlike conventional submarines, nuclear-powered vessels can remain submerged for extended periods without surfacing to recharge batteries, providing greater endurance for long-range underwater missions.
South Korea unveiled its Jang Bogo N development roadmap in May, following U.S. approval of Seoul's nuclear-powered submarine ambitions in 2025. The two allies have also been discussing arrangements to secure nuclear fuel for the vessels.
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