JUSSMAG complains arms dealer role is 'misconception'

A U.S. military group whose origins date back to the late 19th century has helped enhance South Korea's defense capabilities for decades, although it remains largely unknown.

 

Formally established in 1948 by an agreement between South Korea's foreign minister and the U.S. secretary of state, the Joint U.S. Military Affairs Group (JUSMAG-Korea) helped train over 10,000 South Korean military students in the United States since 1976.

 

It has also coordinated the sales of nearly US$20 billion worth of U.S. arms to South Korea since 1950, according to the JUSMAG-K chief, Army Col. Kevin W. Madden.

 

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In just six years from 2002, South Korea purchased over $7.3 billion worth of weapons or defense articles from the United States in both Foreign Military Sales (FMS), or government-to-government sales, and Direct Commercial Sales (DCS), company-to-government sales.

By a common misconception, the JUSMAG is often considered as a promoter for U.S. weapons and weapons manufacturers.

"Obviously, someone would have that misconception because we are involved in FMS, that JUSMAG is arms sale organization. We are absolutely anything but that," said Madden, adding that the U.S. defense industry "knows that and works with us in ensuring that what they are selling is what Korea wants and requests."
Madden admitted he would rather have South Korea purchase more U.S. weapons systems simply because, as he put it, the U.S. offers "Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Cartier" of defense items.

 

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