An Analysis of Factors Affecting Korea-U.S. Defense Industry Cooperation

As U.S.-China competition intensifies, the U.S. is advancing defense industry cooperation with its allies to strengthen defense industry supply chains. This study identifies three key factors influencing Korea-U.S. defense industry cooperation: technological cooperation, supply chain cooperation, and institutional factors. Using the DEMATEL analysis technique, the study found supply chain cooperation to be a core driver, with institutional factors such as signing the RDP-A and efficient export controls supporting cooperation. The study suggests that Korea’s defense industry supply chains could expand to NATO via U.S. cooperation. Strengthening defense industry ties is thus vital for reinforcing the Korea-U.S. alliance, and enhancing Korea’s defense capabilities. These findings offer valuable insights for future research and policy-making.