hankyoreh

South Korea will launch an Army missile defense command on Thursday as part of its efforts to counter threats from North Korea's missiles and long-range artillery, the Army said Wednesday.

The move comes after the North launched seven missiles, one presumed to be a long-range one, over the East Sea on July 5, raising tension over regional and global security.

"The command will be in charge of leading South Korea's artillery powers, including multiple-launch rocket systems and ground-to-ground missiles, known as the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS)," the Army said in a statement.

The command will be based in the central part of the country and is expected to boost South Korea's anti-artillery capabilities sharply, according to Army officials. A two-star general will take charge of the command. They declined to provide more details.

According to defense experts, North Korea operates one artillery corps and 30 brigades, having an edge over the South.

Defying warnings from the United States and Japan, the North carried out the missile tests, prompting the international community to seek sanctions against the reclusive country. The U.N. Security Council later unanimously adopted a resolution against North Korea, denouncing the launches.

Seoul, Sept. 27 (Yonhap News)