US-South Korea hold joint air drills to counter North Korea threat
The United States and South Korea have started a significant joint air drills this week, involving over 200 fighter jets from both nations.
These aircraft will conduct continuous operations for five days, marking the highest number of training sorties ever flown by the allies, according to a statement released by South Korea's air force on Tuesday.
These drills are part of the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, an annual event aimed at enhancing the combined military readiness of South Korea and the U.S. in the face of potential threats from North Korea.
During the exercise, aircraft typically assigned to defensive patrols are being re-tasked for simulated air combat scenarios, which include intercepting enemy aircraft and defending against cruise missiles.
Participating in these drills are aircraft from two U.S. fighter wings stationed in South Korea. The United States maintains a force of 28,500 troops in South Korea as a deterrent against the nuclear capabilities of North Korea.
North Korea, as is customary, has condemned the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, which began on Monday and will continue until August 29, accusing them of heightening tensions on the Korean peninsula and labeling them as preparations for nuclear conflict.
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