Navy chief-inauguration

New Navy chief vows to strengthen naval power by combining manned-unmanned combat capabilities

SEOUL, March 25 (Yonhap) -- Adm. Kim Kyung-ryul took office Wednesday as the new Navy chief, pledging to strengthen the operation's naval power by combining manned and unmanned combat capabilities.

Kim was named Monday as the new Navy chief to replace his predecessor, Adm. Kang Dong-gil, who stepped down from his post over his alleged involvement in the botched martial law bid in late 2024.

"Under dire security situations, the calling of our Navy and the Marine Corps is to protect the people's lives, and the nation's prosperity and security through naval power strong enough to ensure no one can undermine the maritime sovereignty of the Republic of Korea," Kim said in his inauguration address.

To achieve this goal, Kim said he would strengthen the readiness posture of the naval forces by enhancing its current capabilities, and advancing artificial intelligence (AI)-based manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) combat capabilities.

MUM-T refers to an advanced combat system that mobilizes unmanned systems, such as drones, in tandem with manned forces and integrates them under a combined command system driven by AI.

Kim, who previously served as commander of the Republic of Korea Fleet, was promoted to the rank of admiral following parliamentary deliberation the previous day.

His predecessor, Kang, offered to resign earlier this month after the defense ministry imposed "heavy" disciplinary measures against him. He is alleged to have instructed his subordinate to support the establishment of the martial law command on the night of Dec. 3, 2024.

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