Ministry of National Defense Republic of Korea

“Simultaneous Firing.” During the Hoguk field training exercise at the training site in Munhye-ri, Cheolwon-gun, Gangwon-do on October 21, K9A1 self-propelled howitzers of the 8th Maneuver Division, a defense unit, simultaneously fired shells.

The 2024 Hoguk Exercise, aimed at enhancing combined and joint operation capabilities and interoperability, began on October 21 amid a grave security situation. During this annual defense exercise, the Korean military will conduct a massive field training exercise (FTX) under realistic conditions simulating enemy provocations and attacks, while considering recent conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war.

This year’s training exercise notably increased the scale of troops and equipment from all branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force. and Marine Corps. Each branch of the military will conduct various exercises to strengthen combined and joint capabilities. The 7th Maneuver Corps, also known for its salutation motto “Buk-jin (Advance North)”, will divide its subordinate units into two teams and engage in attacks and defense. Also, realistic training for each branch of the military will take place in both front and rear areas.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff, which hosted the exercise, said that with continuously escalating threats from the North, such as launching trash balloons, disclosure of nuclear facilities, and issuing rhetorical threats to the South, the military will boost its combat capabilities through this Hoguk exercise and demonstrate a firm response posture, capabilities, and commitment.

By Su-Yeol, Maeng <guns13@dema.mil.kr >

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