Honolulu, HI - Senior military commanders from across the Indo-Pacific convened at the 2026 Land Forces Pacific Symposium and Exposition (LANPAC) this week to chart a path forward for regional security, placing heavy emphasis on technological innovation, military modernization, and deeper allied cooperation.

AFP was on scene reporting.

In a keynote address delivered on May 13, Gen. Gyuha Kim, Chief of Staff of the Republic of Korea Army, detailed South Korea’s ambitious efforts to transform its ground forces and called for stronger partnerships to confront evolving threats in the region.

Kim declared he was 'inspired by the U.S. Army transformation agenda and its innovation, modernization.

Gen. Kim spotlighted the Republic of Korea Army’s “Army Tiger” modernization program, launched in 2018, and its successor initiative, “Army Tiger Plus.” The expanded program incorporates unmanned aerial systems, robotics, and artificial intelligence to dramatically improve combat effectiveness and accelerate decision-making in high-intensity conflicts.

“The future battlefield will demand faster and more informed decisions,” Kim stated. “Artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and advanced technologies are essential to maintaining readiness and operational advantage.”

While praising technological progress, the general cautioned that hardware alone cannot guarantee success. He stressed the need for sustained investment, organizational reform, and the cultivation of trust among allies.

“Transformation cannot be achieved by one nation alone,” Kim said. “Collective intelligence, open communication, and strong partnerships are necessary to ensure regional security and stability.”