A U.S. Navy official said discussions on Korea's introduction of nuclear-powered submarines should not be for the purpose of elevating national prestige and must be backed by a clear necessity.
According to the Yomiuri Shimbun on the 10th, the U.S. Navy official met with reporters on the 9th (local time) at a base in Hawaii and, regarding Korea's push to acquire nuclear-powered submarines, said, "It is wrong to buy a nuclear-powered submarine for the symbolic value of national prestige," adding, "Korea must find a legitimate reason."
By contrast, when asked whether Japan should consider introducing nuclear-powered submarines, the official said, "I think so." Citing the fact that Japan already operates nuclear power plants, the official also expressed the view that Japan could technically build nuclear-powered submarines.
Within the Japanese government and the ruling party, ahead of revisions to the so-called "three security documents," including the National Security Strategy scheduled within the year, there are calls to introduce nuclear-powered submarines. Nuclear-powered submarines can travel longer distances and remain submerged for extended periods than conventional submarines.
The Yomiuri did not disclose the official's name or specific position.