Defense Ministry asks for 7.6% increase

The Defense Ministry has requested a 7.6 percent increase in next year’s budget as it seeks to introduce aerial refueling aircraft and a low-altitude radar system as well as strengthen other areas.

The ministry announced Monday that it has submitted the 35.47 trillion won ($31.03 billion) proposal to the Ministry of Finance and Strategy.

The request includes 10.99 trillion won for Defense Acquisition Program Administration projects aimed at improving the country’s military capabilities. It marks an 11.1 percent increase from this year.

According to DAPA officials, the 10.99 trillion won will mainly be divided among three areas ― improving South Korea’s ability to respond to existing North Korean threats, preparing for the wartime operational control handover in 2015, and preparing for future threats.

The DAPA plans to conduct 81 projects bolstering capabilities against North Korea include incorporating laser-guided bombs into the military’s arsenal, and increasing the number of K-9 self-propelled guns.

The DAPA has drawn up plans for 62 projects to counter potential threats ― including the development of a new fighter jet ― that will see more than 3.6 trillion won investment.

In addition, the Defense Ministry said that next year’s budget will also fund the introduction of unmanned guard systems with remotely controlled machine guns along the border with North Korea, and the construction of naval bases in the East and the West seas.

Regarding the Defense Ministry’s proportion of the budget, the ministry said that the funds would be used for programs such as improving soldiers’ equipment and living conditions, modernizing facilities, increasing the number of officers in frontline units and introducing modern training programs.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)