North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that drone development plays a significant role in military preparedness, directing the production of various types of drones, including nuclear torpedoes and underwater attack drones.
The state-run newspaper Rodong Sinmun reported that Kim issued such directives on Saturday as he oversaw the performance tests of various drones at the National Defense Science Institute.
“Developing various types of drones and continuously enhancing their combat capabilities is key to military readiness, based on global military science trends and battlefield experiences,” he said.
Kim also directed the development of strategic reconnaissance and multipurpose attack drones and the increased production of various suicide drones suited for tactical infantry and special operations units.
He highlighted the necessity to “continuously develop underwater strategic weapon systems, including nuclear torpedoes and various suicide underwater attack drones, in alignment with our maritime capabilities.” Furthermore, he underscored the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into drone development.
After overseeing performance tests that involved drones following designated routes and identifying and striking specified targets, Kim expressed satisfaction with the drones’ tactical and technical specifications. He emphasized the need for more rigorous combat application tests to ensure the People’s Army units are equipped as soon as possible.
The newspaper blurred the identities of the drones involved in the tests. Some drones were shown flying toward designated targets, such as armored vehicles, and exploding.
North Korea has prioritized drone development, showcasing advanced models such as the strategic reconnaissance drone “Satbyeol-4” and the attack drone “Satbyeol-9” at a military equipment exhibition and parade last July, marking the anniversary of the armistice agreement. The increasing use of drones in the Russia-Ukraine conflict may also hint at a potential link to North Korea’s arms exports to Russia.