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South Korea Trains Half Million Troops as Drone Warriors

June 28, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

South Korea to train 500,000 troops in drone operation.
11,000 commercial training drones to be deployed this year.
20,000 one-way attack drones to be acquired by 2030.
Laser-based defense systems to be equipped by 2027.

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Strategic Implications

This initiative may signal a significant shift in South Korea's military strategy, leveraging inexpensive drones to offset its numerical disadvantage against North Korea. The development of the K-Lucas loitering munition suggests a focus on advanced, long-range capabilities, which could indicate a growing emphasis on asymmetric warfare tactics.

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What Happened

Seoul Invests in Drone Technology to Counter North Korea Threat

South Korea has announced plans to train every active-duty service member in drone operation, with the goal of creating a force of ‘drone warriors’. The initiative, which includes the deployment of 11,000 commercial training drones and the acquisition of 20,000 one-way attack drones, aims to counter the threat posed by North Korea. The country also plans to equip its front-line defenses with laser-based active defense systems and high-power microwave weapons to defend against drone swarms. This development was reported by Ynetnews.

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