Commander Sees North In Collapse

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Commander Sees North In Collapse

North Korea is collapsing socially and economically because it made military development its top priority, Thomas A. Schwartz, commander of U.S. forces in Korea, wrote in a magazine article published by the Ministry of Defense.

"The 'military first' policy provides the only conceivable means by which the regime can survive," General Schwartz wrote. "Unfortunately, their dogged adherence to a 'military first' policy - when viewed against the backdrop of a nation on the brink of complete economic and social collapse - is problematic."

Nevertheless, the U.S. commander continued, "The North Korean military remains the major security threat in northeast Asia." He noted that the North had the world's fifth-largest military establishment and third-largest army, and the largest special operations force in Korea.

"Moreover, North Korea also possesses weapons of mass destruction," he said.

But he described the combined might of the South Korean and U.S. forces as a powerful deterrent force. "An unclassified snapshot of this power and might," he reported, would include potential manpower, including reserves, of 4.5 million, 250 combat ships, four aircraft carrier battle groups, 1,000 helicopters, 1,500 strike aircraft, 3,000 tanks, 6,000 artillery and more than 5,000 tracked vehicles ready for combat.

General Schwartz described South Korean forces as "awesome."

In fact, he said, "they are among the best warriors in the world. Their pride, discipline, tenacity and commitment set the standard for all to emulate."



by Kwon Chee-min

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