The Rising Eagle Brigade of the Republic of Korea Army’s 7th Infantry Division has been conducting a combined Korea-U.S. KCTC training exercise since March 24 at the Korea Combat Training Center (KCTC) in Inje County, Gangwon Province, to enhance the unit’s operational capabilities.
The training runs through this Friday and includes a free-maneuver bilateral engagement against a professional opposing force (OPFOR) regiment. It also focuses on assessing the brigade’s wartime readiness and improving tactical proficiency.
Approximately 2,200 personnel participated in the exercise, including the division’s artillery battalion and tank company, two regional units from the II Corps Special Assault Regiment, mechanized and infantry battalions, rotary and attack helicopter companies, and a company from the U.S. 2nd Infantry Division/ROK-U.S. Combined Division Stryker Brigade. Around 380 pieces of equipment were mobilized, including K1 tanks, K55A1 self-propelled howitzers, K105A1 wheeled self-propelled howitzers, K200 armored vehicles, 500MD helicopters, and U.S. Stryker armored vehicles.
The brigade focused on enhancing its capabilities to counter drones, which have emerged as a key variable in modern warfare. The unit dispersed its command posts using wheeled command vehicles to maintain continuous command and control. Soldiers were also trained in using counter-drone equipment such as jammers, M4 shotguns, and net guns.
A company from the U.S. Stryker Brigade participated in the KCTC training, further enhancing combined operational capabilities and strengthening military exchange and cooperation between the two countries.
After the exercise, the unit conducted a simulation-based analysis using scientific combat assessment systems to evaluate combat outcomes and identify areas for improvement.
Colonel Lee Dong Myung, commander of the brigade, stated, “Through strong will and thorough preparation, we demonstrated the capabilities and readiness of a unit that always wins when it fights.” He added, “It was a meaningful opportunity to explore proactive responses to the ever-changing battlefield environment, including the threat posed by drones.”
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