North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inspected a project to build a nuclear-powered submarine, marking a significant step in Pyongyang’s military ambitions. State media reported on March 8 that the initiative is part of a broader strategy to “radically” enhance the country’s naval capabilities.
During his visit to shipyards focused on warship construction, Kim reviewed the development of a “nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine,” a key military goal outlined at a previous party congress. This marks the first public acknowledgment of North Korea’s efforts to construct a ballistic missile submarine, according to Yonhap news agency.
Kim emphasized that the nation’s “sea defence capability… will be fully displayed in any necessary waters without limitation,” underscoring the importance of developing an elite, nuclear-armed naval force. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) highlighted the strategic role of naval modernization in North Korea’s national defense strategy.
Despite boasting one of the world’s largest submarine fleets, with an estimated 64 to 86 vessels, experts question the operational status of many due to their age. In 2023, North Korea claimed to have launched its first “tactical nuclear attack submarine,” though South Korean officials expressed skepticism about its functionality.
The inspection comes amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. Last week, North Korea conducted a test-launch of strategic cruise missiles in the Yellow Sea, describing the drill as a demonstration of its “counterattack” capabilities. Meanwhile, joint South Korea-US military exercises, including the “Freedom Shield” drills, are set to begin later this month, drawing sharp criticism from Pyongyang.
The two Koreas remain technically at war, as the 1950-1953 Korean War ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty. Relations have further deteriorated, with South Korea accusing North Korea of sending troops to support Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, violating international sanctions.