South Korea and U.S. Conduct Combined Nuclear and Conventional Tabletop Exercise "Iron Mace 25-1"

Aimed at Strengthening the Practical Implementation of Integrated Extended Deterrence

South Korea and the United States have launched a Combined Nuclear and Conventional Integration Tabletop Exercise (CNI TTX) to strengthen the effectiveness of integrated extended deterrence measures.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff announced on the 25th that, under the leadership of the Korea Strategic Command, South Korea and the United States conducted the CNI TTX, titled "Iron Mace 25-1," over five days starting from the 21st at Yongsan, Seoul.

Ministry of National Defense, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Photo by Jin Hyung Kang

Prior to the exercise, both sides conducted the Nuclear Weapon Effects Course (NWECK) for participants, providing education on the knowledge and skills necessary to operate effectively in a nuclear environment.

This CNI TTX was conducted as part of the implementation of the joint guidelines of the South Korea-U.S. Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG), with key officials from the Joint Chiefs of Staff and relevant commands from both countries participating. The participants discussed measures to strengthen extended deterrence, including joint planning procedures for conventional support by one side in the event of a U.S. nuclear operation.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff stated, "South Korea and the United States have agreed to continue with 'Iron Mace 25-2' in the second half of the year to achieve the goals of the alliance."