Ex-USFK commander warns time-based OPCON transfer could weaken deterrence against N. Korea

What happened: Retired Gen. Robert Abrams, USFK commander from 2018 to 2021, warned at a CSIS webinar that a time-based transfer of wartime operational control to South Korea could raise risk and weaken deterrence against North Korea. Key numbers: Abrams led USFK from 2018 to 2021. Why it matters: Abrams said operational shortfalls remain on the South Korean military side, and that setting a date without needed capabilities could create gaps in the allies' defense posture. Gen. Xavier Brunson, the current USFK commander, has said political expediency should not override military readiness.

Retired Gen. Robert Abrams, USFK commander from 2018 to 2021, warned at a CSIS webinar that a time-based transfer of wartime operational control to South Korea could raise risk and weaken deterrence against North Korea.

Abrams said operational shortfalls remain on the South Korean military side, and that setting a date without needed capabilities could create gaps in the allies' defense posture. Gen. Xavier Brunson, the current USFK commander, has said political expediency should not override military readiness.