North Korea Unveils Development of Nuclear-Powered Missile Submarine

North Korea has unveiled what it says is a nuclear-powered missile submarine as tensions with the US and South Korea simmer.

Key Insights

North Korea says it is developing a new nuclear-powered submarine.
Moon Keun-sik, submarine expert from South Korea, estimates that the vessel weighs 6,000-7,000 tons and could carry approximately 10 missiles.
The submarine’s stealth capabilities would make detection difficult, allowing it to launch underwater missiles undetected for extended periods.
Moon suggested Russia may have been involved in North Korea’s acquisition of nuclear submarine technology despite international sanctions.
The submarine’s unveiling coincides with upcoming US-South Korea military exercises and intensified anti-US rhetoric from Pyongyang.

A New Threat?

North Korea has announced the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine, described as a “nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine.” Kim Jong Un was photographed touring a navy shipyard where the vessel was showcased, potentially marking a significant advancement in North Korea’s military capabilities. The submarine is estimated to weigh between 6,000 and 7,000 tons and could carry approximately 10 missiles, according to submarine expert Moon Keun-sik. This development could represent a substantial leap from North Korea’s existing fleet of 70-90 outdated diesel-powered submarines primarily limited to launching torpedoes and mines.

Speaking of the recent development, Moon Keun-sik warned, “It would be absolutely threatening to us and the US.” The primary concern stems from nuclear submarines’ ability to operate undetected for extended periods while capable of launching missiles from underwater positions. This stealth factor significantly complicates detection and defense strategies for South Korea and its allies. The submarine would allow North Korea to deploy missiles from various positions in regional waters without easy tracking by opposing forces.

The Telegraph noted that no information about the date or location of the photographs were provided, and no one can independently verify information about the submarine. Some experts reportedly believe it is a test platform as opposed to a functional system.

Russian Connection and Sanctions Evasion

Questions remain about how North Korea acquired the sophisticated technology necessary for nuclear submarine construction despite being under heavy international sanctions. Moon pointed to potential Russian assistance, suggesting Moscow may have provided critical technology in exchange for North Korean military support. The timing of this development comes amid reports of increased cooperation between Russia and North Korea on various military fronts.

Despite strict international sanctions intended to prevent North Korea from developing advanced weapons systems, the country has continued its military modernization efforts. The funding sources for these expensive programs remain unclear, though experts suggest a combination of sanction evasion techniques, illicit trade, and foreign assistance has enabled continued weapons development. The nuclear submarine program represents one of the most ambitious and resource-intensive military projects undertaken by the regime.

Escalating Regional Tensions

The submarine’s unveiling arrives amid heightened tensions on the Korean peninsula. North Korea has intensified its anti-US rhetoric in recent weeks, vowing to enhance its nuclear weapons program ahead of planned US-South Korea military exercises. Despite previous diplomatic efforts during the Trump administration to engage with Kim Jong Un, North Korea claims that hostilities with the United States have only intensified. The regime consistently characterizes joint military drills between the US and South Korea as rehearsals for invasion.

North Korea has been conducting underwater ballistic missile tests since 2016, using smaller submarines as test platforms. Moon indicates that completing and testing the nuclear-powered submarine may take one to two years before it becomes operational. When deployed, the vessel could significantly alter the strategic calculus in Northeast Asia, potentially forcing the US and its allies to adapt their defense postures and surveillance capabilities.