South Korea plans anti-piracy unit expansion near Strait of Hormuz

Parliamentary approval required for move

The government will submit a proposal to the National Assembly to extend the deployment period. This action requires final sign-off from President Lee Jae Myung and the cabinet before implementation begins.

Additional assets join existing force

Defense officials plan to add 75 new personnel to the current roster of around 300 service members. The unit will also deploy a P-8A maritime patrol aircraft alongside its destroyer and helicopter assets.

Operational limits remain strict

The enhanced mission focuses on protecting citizens and economic interests without engaging in combat operations. Patrol aircraft are prohibited from targeting Iranian territory or monitoring the interior of the waterway during missions.