As tensions remain high on the Korean peninsula, the United States has signed a new contingency planed with the South Korean government.

The plan would allow the South Koreans to take the lead in small scale provocations by the north. This new plan equips the South Koreans so that the south could “quickly and firmly punish any kind of provocations of North Korea,” according to a South Korean Army Colonel, and spokesman for the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff, Um Hyo-shik.

Concerned that the South Koreans would take too aggressive of a stance, the signing that was originally to take place in January, was carried out on Friday. The U.S. was uncomfortable at that time and was concerned that the south may take to aggressive a stance and risk escalating an incident into all out war.

This new plan will allow the U.S. to come to the aid of the South Koreans in instances short of all-out war. Prior to the new plan, the U.S. could have declined the option according to the Korean Defense ministry. Officials said the plan includes procedures for consultation and action. It also improves the readiness posture to allow for a strong and decisive combined South Korean and U.S. response to North Korean provocations and threats.

The United States maintains approximately 12 bases and camps in South Korea as well as has as many as 30,000 troops stationed there.