The Defense Ministry is reportedly considering expanding the operational range of the Cheonghae Unit, currently deployed in the Aden Gulf off Somalia, to include the Oman Gulf, which borders the Hormuz Strait. Plans to enhance aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities by adding maritime patrol aircraft are also under review.
As the ministry prepares to submit a proposal for the extension of the 'Korean military's deployment in the Aden Gulf off Somalia' to the National Assembly, it is examining the operational scope and force composition of the Cheonghae Unit.
Since 2009, the Cheonghae Unit has been engaged in anti-piracy operations, vessel escort missions, and safe navigation support in the Aden Gulf. Its current composition includes one 4,400-ton destroyer, one maritime operation helicopter, three high-speed boats, and up to 320 personnel.
The ministry is also considering reinforcing the unit with an additional maritime patrol aircraft, with the P-8A Poseidon being mentioned as a potential option. The Oman Gulf, where the operational range expansion is being considered, connects the Hormuz Strait to the Arabian Sea.
The deployment proposal approved by the National Assembly last year defines the Cheonghae Unit's operational range as 'the area around the Aden Gulf off Somalia.' However, it also includes areas designated for the protection of Korean citizens in emergencies, providing a basis for additional mission execution.
The Defense Ministry stated that this review is not a response to the U.S. request for troop deployment in the Hormuz Strait but rather a consideration of the existing conditions for carrying out anti-piracy operations, citing an increase in piracy activities in the Aden Gulf region that has worsened maritime safety.
A ministry official noted that the current deployment agreement for the Cheonghae Unit is set to expire on December 31 of this year, adding, 'The government is considering submitting an extension proposal before the expiration of the Cheonghae Unit's deployment agreement, but no details have been finalized.'
The possibility of expanding the Cheonghae Unit's role has been raised following the blockade of the Hormuz Strait due to the U.S.-Iran conflict. In March, President Donald Trump requested the deployment of a naval vessel to South Korea, drawing attention to the potential involvement of the Cheonghae Unit in nearby waters.
President Lee Jae-myung indicated the possibility of enhancing the Cheonghae Unit's role during a press conference with the public on September 18, stating, 'There will be no deployment for war intervention,' while suggesting an increase in the unit's responsibilities. The Cheonghae Unit has reportedly provided long-distance escort support for Korean oil tankers using alternative routes around the Red Sea due to the blockade of the Hormuz Strait.
Defense Minister Kang Shin-cheol is expected to submit the deployment proposal to the National Assembly soon, stating, 'We are reviewing various aspects regarding the Cheonghae Unit's mission and deployment extension.'
* This article has been translated by AI.
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