South Korea has announced plans to expand its anti-piracy operations to waters closer to the strait of Hormuz, amid pressure from the US over Iran war support. The Cheonghae unit's area of operation will be expanded to waters near the port of Duqm in Oman, which is approximately 650km away from the strait. The expansion is intended to enhance the unit's capabilities in the region, with the mission being strictly noncombat.
The unit has been stationed in the Gulf of Aden since 2009 and currently includes a 4,400-ton-class destroyer and about 300 service members. The government will submit a motion to parliament to approve the expansion, which also requires approval from President Lee Jae Myung and the cabinet.
The expansion is expected to increase the unit's operating radius, with the addition of 75 personnel and a P-8A maritime patrol aircraft. South Korea sourced 70% of its oil supplies from the Middle East in 2025, highlighting the importance of the region to the country's energy security.
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