Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) Exercise Reinforces “Fight Tonight” Combined Defense Posture

Minister Ahn Gyu-back visits CP TANGO of ROK-US Combined Forces Command.

The sweat shared by ROK and US troops is the driving force behind preserving peace.

He urges all personnel to give their best until the end of the exercise.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back visited key command facilities of the Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) 2025 exercise and emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong combined defense posture.

On the afternoon of August 20, Minister Ahn visited the Command Post Theater Air Naval Ground Operations (CP TANGO) of the ROK-US Combined Forces Command, reviewed the combined defense posture, and encouraged the ROK-US soldiers participating in the exercise. CP TANGO is the command center where key military commanders from both countries gather to coordinate operations in the event of war.

After receiving a briefing on the progress of the UFS exercise, Minister Ahn said, "This is the first combined exercise since the inauguration of the new administration. It presents a valuable opportunity to demonstrate the strength of the ROK-US Alliance and to reinforce our combined defense posture. I urge ROK and US soldiers to work shoulder to shoulder during the exercise to establish a 'Fight Tonight' combined defense posture."

Minister Ahn also told the soldiers, "I feel greatly reassured to see you as the cornerstone of the Republic of Korea's security, with the Combined Forces Command serving as the cornerstone of peace, security, and stability on the Korean Peninsula." He said, "The sweat that ROK and US soldiers are shedding at this moment is the driving force for preserving peace in the Republic of Korea. I urge you to give your best in accomplishing your assigned roles and tasks until the very last minute."

The robust and effective exercise strengths integrated security capability

In the exercise, the ROK military effectively deployed the UFS training program, enhancing integrated security capabilities to prepare for multiple contingencies.

On August 20, units from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps focused on integrated defense training, emphasizing collaboration with local governments and relevant organizations to prepare for potential terror threats at key state facilities and city centers. From the Army, the 53rd Infantry Division; the 17th, 31st, 32nd, 35th, 37th, 39th, 50th, and 51st Infantry Divisions; the 5th Logistic Support Command; and the 1113th Engineer Corps conducted exercises at harbors, administrative institutions, sports facilities, and electric and gas facilities. Particularly, the Eighth United States Army and the Republic of Korea Army Support Group conducted ROK-US combined KATUSA mobilization training, demonstrating the strength of the Alliance.

The Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps conducted exercises to enhance their operational capabilities at sea and in the air. The Fleet Command carried out chemical, biological, and radiological exercises at Busan Naval Base, while the First Fleet enhanced operational sustainability through joint sessions with the Coast Guard. The 3rd Air and Missile Defense Brigade enhanced its operational capabilities through maneuver defense exercises conducted with related institutions. In addition, the 3rd Flight Training Wing participated in counterterrorism exercises, while the 8th Fighter Wing strengthened mission capabilities by successfully running large-scale casualty medical support training. Marine Corps Logistic Group implemented counter terrorism training.

By Byeong-No, Yun <[email protected] >

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