South Korea, Japan, and the United States will conduct a joint nuclear missile defense exercise called Freedom Edge from September 9 to 11, 2026, in international waters south and east of Jeju Island. The drill is designed to enhance the three nations’ ability to counter North Korean missile and nuclear threats. North Korea launched approximately 10 short-range ballistic missiles in late August, widely interpreted as a provocation amid ongoing diplomatic engagement. Previous iterations featured Aegis-equipped destroyers and US B-52H and B-1B strategic bombers. The exercise aims to improve interoperability by rehearsing the sharing of targeting data while demonstrating US extended deterrence through nuclear-capable platforms.
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