Commander Brunson: THAAD Remains on Korean Peninsula

Xavier Brunson, Commander of US Forces Korea, on the 21st (local time) denied media reports suggesting the relocation of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system from the Korean Peninsula to the Middle East, stating that THAAD remains on the peninsula. Testifying before the US Senate Armed Services Committee, Brunson responded to questions about the system's movement by saying, 'We have not moved any THAAD systems,' and added that THAAD munitions are also on standby for movement. He explained that while there had been past actions to relocate the radar to the front lines, the THAAD system itself remains on the Korean Peninsula. Brunson noted that concerns had grown due to rumors surrounding the potential movement of the THAAD system to the Osan base.

Regarding the transfer of wartime operational control, Brunson emphasized that it must be a 'conditions-based transition,' stating, 'We must continue to ensure that political expediency does not precede conditions.' He stressed, 'We must focus on the conditions. Doing so will make both the United States and South Korea safer.'

Brunson reaffirmed his focus on the capabilities rather than the troop numbers of US Forces Korea. He stated, 'Our presence is a foundational premise, but to truly understand the transition from numbers to capabilities, it is essential to maintain focus on the specific capabilities that must be fielded on the Korean Peninsula.' He explained that in a rapidly changing security environment, the 'quality' of troops and weapons is more important than their 'quantity.'