ROK Navy’s New CNO Committed to CVX Program

ROK Navy's New CNO Committed to CVX Program
Admiral Kim Jung-soo (center) has been appointed the 35th Chief of Naval Operations of the ROK Navy, taking over command from Admiral Boo Suk-jong (right). ROK Navy picture
Admiral Kim Jung-soo has been appointed the 35th Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy. Kim took over command from Admiral Boo Suk-jong on December 16. The new CNO expressed his support for the CVX aircraft carrier program.
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The change of command ceremony took place at the Gyeryongdae Complex, the headquarters of the ROK Navy, and was attended by major ROK military commanders and naval officers.

At the ceremony Kim expressed his explicit support for the CVX program:

“Because light aircraft carriers are a national strategic asset and the culmination of joint operations doctrine, we shall continue to push forward with the program,”



Admiral Kim Jung-soo, ROK Navy CNO

“There are many opinions regarding the budget for the light aircraft carrier program. We will do our best to reflect such opinions as we proceed with the project and to maximize the ship’s potential.” Kim expressed similar views at a meeting with President Moon Jae-in on December 20, saying, “We will do our best to ensure that the light carrier project proceeds without setbacks.”

ROK Navy CVX CSG
Scale models of ships forming what could be a future ROK Navy carrier strike group (CSG). Besides the aircraft carrier, the CSG is composed of 2 KSS III submarines, 2 KDX III Aegis destroyers, 1 KDX II destroyer, 2 KDDX destroyers and 3 FFX frigates. This was a display on the ROK Navy stand at MADEX 2021.

Despite Kim’s enthusiasm, he is likely to face an uphill battle. Public opinion against the CVX program and resistance in the National Assembly will need to be overcome if the ROK Navy is to  bring the plan to fruition. The ROK Navy just barely secured funds for CVX development in fiscal year 2022  earlier this month. 

Kim has held many important positions throughout his career. His previous positions include: Vice-CNO, ROK Navy Headquarters Chief Secretary, and Commander of  Maritime Task Flotilla Seven.

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