North Korea’s ‘Suicide Drones’ Revealed: What the Latest Development Means for Global Security

South Korea’s Ministry of Unification has stated that North Korea’s recently unveiled “suicide drone” appears to have been developed by its five-year defense science development plan.

During a regular briefing, Koo Byung Sam, spokesperson for the Ministry of Unification, said, “The development of drones itself is one of the key tasks under North Korea’s five-year defense science development plan,” and added, “We are closely analyzing the weapon development process in North Korea in collaboration with relevant agencies.”

Rodong Sinmun reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that drone development plays a significant role in war preparations. He instructed the production of more nuclear torpedoes, offensive underwater drones, and various types of suicide drones.

The newspaper obscured the specifications of the drones used in the tests to prevent accurate identification. Some drones were shown flying towards targets, such as tanks, and detonating upon impact.

Earlier, Kim unveiled the core details of the “Five-Year Plan for Defense Science Development and Weapon System Development” during the 8th Party Congress held in January 2021.

The plan includes several key advancements in nuclear technology and military capabilities. It covers the development of various tactical nuclear weapons, the production of super-large nuclear warheads, and the creation of hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs). The plan also details the development of both underwater and ground-based solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and the acquisition of nuclear-powered submarines and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).

Further, the strategy emphasizes advancements in nuclear technology, including miniaturization and tactical application of nuclear weapons. It aims to enhance preemptive and retaliatory strike capabilities against strategic targets within a 15,000-kilometer (9,320-mile) range. The plan also includes the operation of military reconnaissance satellites and the development of unmanned aircraft.