The South Korean Navy will dispatch ten troops of its elite underwater demolition team (UDT) to help United Arab Emirates (UAE) forces mid next month, the defence ministry said.

The dispatch of troops follows the successful rescue operation, code-named “Dawn of Gulf of Aden”, performed in January against Somali pirates an official said.

The deployment of the additional dispatch doesn’t require approval at the National Assembly as the Korean Parliament had already approved a dispatch of up to 150 troops to the UAE late last year.

South Korea currently operates a 130-strong special forces unit, known as Ahk, to help train local troops in anti-terrorism and parachute infiltration while also conducting joint drills.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The presence of South Korean troops in the UAE would boost military and other ties between the countries, however, critics claim that the deployment is linked to a deal between the two nations.

South Korea has won a $20bn contract from the UAE to build four nuclear reactors by 2020, according to Yonhap News.