Frequent coastal breaches in South Korea highlight the delicate balance between advanced tech and expert training
South Korea’s Thermal Observation Device (TOD) sits atop a South Korean coastal guard post overlooking the East Sea, Oct. 9, 2023 | Image: Korea Pro
Recent maritime breaches along South Korea’s coastal borders have raised concerns about the reliability of the country’s main defense tools: the Thermal Observation Device (TOD) and radar. The TOD detects nighttime objects based on their heat signatures, while radar uses radio waves to identify distant objects. Together, they play a crucial role in South Korea’s early warning system.
However, having advanced technology isn’t enough. Defense experts stress the importance of thorough training and expertise among ROK Army personnel for these systems to be effective.
Recent maritime breaches along South Korea’s coastal borders have raised concerns about the reliability of the country’s main defense tools: the Thermal Observation Device (TOD) and radar. The TOD detects nighttime objects based on their heat signatures, while radar uses radio waves to identify distant objects. Together, they play a crucial role in South Korea’s early warning system.
However, having advanced technology isn’t enough. Defense experts stress the importance of thorough training and expertise among ROK Army personnel for these systems to be effective.
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