Seoul Panel Urges Joint Operations Command, Disbanding Drone Unit in OPCON Push

Overview

• An advisory committee recommended creating a Joint Operations Command to unify wartime and peacetime command ahead of the OPCON handover.
• The Joint Chiefs of Staff would shift operational duties to the new command and refocus on strategy, force development and strategic assessments.
• The panel called for abolishing the Drone Operations Command due to overlapping functions, with drone capabilities integrated across the services.
• Recommendations include redefining Strategic Command’s role for greater autonomy and standing up a dedicated Space Command.
• The committee urged early fielding of high-precision missiles, L-SAM air defenses and military satellites, alongside average annual defense R&D increases of over 10%, with changes to be pursued in phases following review and consultation with the United States.