U.S. forces launch space unit in South Korea amid North’s growing threats

Reuters:

SEOUL, Dec 14 – U.S. Forces Korea launched a new space forces unit on Wednesday as the allies ramp up efforts to better counter North Korea’s evolving nuclear and missile threats.

The U.S. Space Forces Korea is the second overseas space component of the U.S. Space Force and is tasked with monitoring, detecting and tracking incoming missiles, as well as bolstering the military’s overall space capability. It will be led by Lt. Col. Joshua McCullion.

U.S. Forces Korea commander Gen. Paul LaCamera said the unit would enhance the U.S. ability to ensure peace and security on the Korean peninsula and in Northeast Asia.

“The U.S. military is faster, better connected, more informed, precise and legal because of space,” LaCamera told a ceremony at Osan Air Base in the South Korean city of Pyeongtaek.

Seoul and Washington are seeking to boost security cooperation to deter North Korea, which this year has tested intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland.