Chapter 151
Chapter 151
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Translator: Vine
Chapter: 151
Chapter Title: A Request for Neutrality
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“Thank you for your hard work.”
After finishing my schedule in Russia, which had lasted several days, I arrived at Incheon Airport to find CEO Ahn waiting for me.
Wondering if something else had happened, I looked at him with a tense expression, and he let out a laugh.
“Are you that surprised to see me?”
“To be honest, yes. My heart drops whenever I see anyone other than Secretary Kim at the airport. Anyway, what brings you all the way out here?”
“Ah, actually, there are a few things I need to report and discuss with you.”
CEO Ahn said, glancing around cautiously.
It meant he wanted to avoid a place with so many eyes and ears.
I immediately started walking toward the waiting car.
“Go ahead.”
I asked again only after confirming the soundproof window was raised.
Perhaps because of the overly effective soundproofing, my ears felt momentarily muffled.
“First, there’s some news that might surprise you, so you should brace yourself.”
The way he said it suggested this was no ordinary matter.
I narrowed my eyes slightly and looked at him as he continued.
“According to information from the NIS, it’s highly likely our government will dispatch a squadron of attack helicopters to Iraq.”
“They’re sending the Posa to Iraq?”
“Yes, and not only that, they might also send an additional special forces battalion.”
“To where?”
“Kirkuk.”
Kirkuk was one of the most intense conflict zones in Iraq.
The so-called Sunni Triangle.
My God!
If that happened, it meant there was a high probability our combat troops would start engaging directly with insurgent forces. I suppose the inevitable has finally arrived.
“When are they scheduled to be deployed?”
“It will probably take time to get congressional approval, so I expect it will be around the end of the year. If it’s decided, they’re scheduled to join the U.S. 101st Airborne Division.”
A long sigh escaped me automatically.
History had now begun to follow a completely different path from the original timeline.
There was no way of knowing where it would end.
Of course, I had expected that our elevation to a First Ally would have some impact on the Iraq issue, but I hadn’t anticipated it would be this soon.
“Oh, and perhaps because of that, the U.S. plans to move up the conference in the UK, originally scheduled for early next year, to the end of this year.”
“…”
“They want to get the member states’ approval for our First Ally status as quickly as possible.”
“So they’re trying to sweeten the deal.”
I let out a hollow laugh and looked out the window.
Perhaps conscious of how rigid my expression had become, CEO Ahn gently brought up another piece of news.
“According to Dr. Kim Hee-won from the research institute, the development of the Korean-style MESA radar is complete.”
“Is that so?”
That was certainly good news.
The completion of the Korean-style MESA radar meant that the production of the AEW&C aircraft, which had been sluggish until now, would soon begin in earnest.
Of course, it would still require the integration of control systems and various sensors, as well as testing in various operational environments, but that was just a matter of time.
“So when are they scheduled to begin full-scale production?”
“The airframe has already arrived from Boeing and is being modified at KAI, so I think the first unit can begin air testing by the end of this year. After that, if there are no operational issues for about six months, production of the remaining units will begin.”
Then they should be ready for deployment around the latter half of next year.
Considering the production speed of the KF-02, it would also be possible to test the integration of the link system and the resulting operational efficiency.
“In two years, the Air Force’s strength will be completely different.”
“Yes. Once the development of the 5th-generation aircraft is complete, we’ll be able to secure air superiority without the help of the U.S. military.”
Honestly, it sounded like a dream.
The reality of this country securing independent operational capabilities using its air power without American assistance.
Has it been a full eight years since my return?
Unlike other times, a sense of pride washed over me, stemming from the fact that this time, I hadn't wasted a moment.
*Tsk*, but I suppose it’s not time to relax just yet.
The ground surveillance and control aircraft.
There was no telling when we might be able to acquire that.
No, that’s not all that’s left.
The Air Force is one thing, but the Navy is just getting started.
Logistics support ships, frigates, landing ships, and high-speed patrol boats…
“Damn, there’s so much to do.”
“Pardon?”
CEO Ahn reacted to the words that had slipped out.
I waved my hand as if it were nothing, and he continued with a smile.
“And I have more news to share.”
I looked at him silently.
Finding my expression amusing, CEO Ahn shook his head and spoke again.
“You can rest assured, there’s nothing else today that will displease you.”
“That’s a relief. Go on.”
“It’s about something else. I received a call from General Michael of the U.S. Department of Defense.”
“Michael?”
“Yes. He said he’s planning to come to Korea soon and asked about your schedule, Chairman.”
“Why is he suddenly coming to Korea?”
“I don’t know the details, but he said that since we will be connected as a First Ally with the U.S., there will be many changes in military logistics cooperation, and this is to prepare for that in advance.”
“…”
“Honestly, when you think of South Korea’s defense industry, Jaewoo is the leading representative, isn’t it? So the idea is to vastly expand cooperation between U.S. defense companies and Jaewoo.”
That was something I had anticipated to some extent.
Being a First Ally didn't just affect intelligence or policy.
Especially in areas like joint military operations and weapons development, the cooperative relationship would likely grow stronger over time.
“Then I suppose I should use this opportunity to take care of some overdue homework.”
“Homework?”
“I’m talking about the overall upgrade of U.S.-made weapons supplied to our military.”
“Ah!”
CEO Ahn finally understood and nodded.
He then wore a thoughtful expression for a moment before speaking tentatively.
“I’m sorry, but would you be willing to grant me a small favor?”
“What is it?”
I looked at him, puzzled.
CEO Ahn, who seemed to find it difficult to bring up the subject, scratched his head until, just as I was about to burst with frustration, he finally opened his mouth again.
“This is a topic you’re extremely cautious about, Chairman, so it’s hard for me to bring it up.”
“Whatever it is, I’ll be the judge of it, so just tell me.”
“Well, I recently met Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan of the opposition party at a university alumni gathering.”
“…Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan was your university classmate?”
“How old do you think I am? How could I be a classmate of Assemblyman Lee, who’s in his mid-fifties? He said he came with a friend of mine, but I got the feeling he was there to see me.”
“Why him?”
Though I asked the question, I already had a good idea of his purpose.
To find a connection to me.
Sure enough, CEO Ahn spoke again with an awkward smile.
“He asked if I could arrange a meeting with you, Chairman. He said he’s tried to convey his intentions through Secretary Kim several times, but you’ve been completely unresponsive…”
“I’m sure he has. I’ve been deliberately avoiding him. Honestly, with more than a year left in this administration’s term, there’s no need for me to meet a leading presidential candidate from the opposition party and create unnecessary misunderstandings.”
“Of course, that’s true, but I don’t think it would be a bad idea to meet him just once.”
His attitude seemed uncharacteristic of him.
Moreover, he was someone who had, for a time, been involved with the current administration.
The situation was rather ironic.
“I had a chance to speak with him, and he’s certainly different from existing politicians in many ways. His perspective on social issues, his proper understanding of the chronic problems in politics…”
“Even so, if I meet him in this situation, it won’t be looked upon favorably, will it?”
“You’re not wrong, but it’s not as if we intend to back the opposition party, is it?”
“…”
It seemed CEO Ahn had already given him high marks.
The fact that he was so drawn to a man named Lee Ju-hwan after just one meeting must mean the man himself was that impressive.
Then again, if I hadn't been on my guard, I probably would have reacted no differently than CEO Ahn.
Back when Japan tried to sow division in this country’s politics through the opposition party.
The way he shattered that attempt with his powerful charisma made me think he was truly the perfect candidate for the next president.
“If you’re worried about the Blue House, you can put those concerns to rest.”
As my thoughts deepened, CEO Ahn spoke again.
His tone was strangely meaningful, so I whipped my head around to look at him. He smiled faintly and said.
“While you were in Russia, I had the opportunity to meet with the President about the AEW&C aircraft. I subtly brought it up then, and he seemed to indicate that he didn’t mind at all.”
“That’s rather surprising.”
“It is. But when you consider the President’s disposition and the current political situation, it’s understandable.”
“…”
“I’m talking about Lee Pil-yong, the ruling party’s next presidential candidate. He’s been clashing with the President a bit too much. Honestly, it’s gotten to the point where you can’t even tell who’s the ruling party and who’s the opposition. That says it all.”
Frankly, I couldn't understand that part either.
The next year was the most crucial period for the continuation of the administration.
For the government and the ruling party to turn their backs on each other in the midst of that was tantamount to giving up the next administration, so why were they being so reckless?
“Hmm…”
Of course, there were aspects I could understand.
Lee Pil-yong, the current ruling party’s presidential candidate, was historically evaluated as one of the most unfit individuals for the presidency.
The Blue House must have predicted that he couldn't maintain their hold on power, and the resulting rift had now become irreparable.
*Tsk*, even so, haven't they lost their senses a bit too much?
If the administration changes hands, the ruling party will be left with nothing. What is this?
“Are you saying the President has already given up on maintaining power?”
“He wouldn’t say so out loud. He’s probably just preparing for it inwardly.”
“Haah, well now.”
“In any case, given the President’s disposition, my point is that you don’t need to be so cautious about meeting Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan.”
I thought about it for a long time.
Perhaps this too was a consequence of the butterfly effect I had caused.
If so, was there any need to resist it?
“Well, if the Blue House doesn’t particularly care, then… CEO Ahn, please arrange a suitable day.”
******
Creeak!
A few days later, the meeting with Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan finally took place, arranged by CEO Ahn.
When I arrived at the appointed place, Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan was already there.
According to the restaurant owner, he had arrived thirty minutes early, which was likely a measure to reveal his character.
That he was different from other politicians steeped in authoritarianism.
“Welcome.”
As I opened the door to the room, he shot up from his seat with a smile.
“I apologize for being late.”
As I extended my hand with a look of feigned apology, he waved it off.
“Not at all. I just arrived early. Please, have a seat.”
I momentarily looked at his face as he maintained his courtesy.
There was no trace of pretense in his expression.
No, it wasn't just a lack of pretense; his demeanor had a charm that naturally made you like him.
No matter how I thought about it, I couldn't understand why a man of his caliber hadn't distinguished himself in politics before my regression.
‘Lee Ju-hwan.’
I tried to recall my memories of him.
All that came to mind was a scene from a hearing where he meticulously questioned a government official.
But even then, he hadn't displayed this level of charisma.
I couldn't figure out at what point his disposition had changed so drastically.
“To be frank, it’s true that I’ve been avoiding your proposals to meet.”
After a few rounds of drinks, I spoke bluntly.
It was my belief that to understand a person’s character, the best way was to reveal my own intentions first.
I glanced at his expression, but there was no hint of displeasure. I couldn't yet tell if this was intentional or if he was deliberately hiding his true feelings.
“That’s only natural. What good could come from the CEO of a defense company with close ties to the current administration meeting with an opposition party assemblyman?”
“Thank you for your understanding. However, I don’t understand why you are so keen on meeting me, Assemblyman Lee. I’m just the head of a humble defense company.”
“My, you’re being far too modest.”
Assemblyman Lee Ju-hwan delivered a heavy blow.
As I looked at him silently, he spoke again with a faint smile.
“Considering the role that Jaewoo, no, Chairman Jin Hyun-seung, plays in South Korea, there’s no need to be so humble. In that sense, I’ll be honest. I need Jaewoo’s help.”
“…”
“Ah, but I’m not asking Jaewoo Group or you, Chairman, to back me right away, so you don’t need to look at me like that.”
“Then what exactly do you need my help with?”
“Jaewoo’s—no, Chairman Jin’s absolute neutrality. That is what will help me.”
‘Look at this. Not asking for support, but for me to remain neutral?’
His words were unexpected, so I simply stared at him.
Perhaps feeling his explanation was insufficient, he filled my empty glass with alcohol and continued.
“Of course, seeing your actions so far, I have no doubt that you will maintain neutrality. However, from now on, it may become difficult due to your surrounding environment.”
“When you say surrounding environment, what specifically are you referring to?”
“The political world, of course.”
“…”
“As I said before, you, Chairman Jin, have become one of the most influential figures in this country. You don’t really think the political world will never try to contact you, do you?”
“…”