Kim Jong Un Oversees Drone Tests
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the mass production of self-detonating explosive drones, calling their development an “essential requirement” for the country’s military. The announcement came after Kim oversaw a test of the drones, which reportedly destroyed targets, including a car and a tank, state media reported on November 14, 2024.
The test demonstrated the drones’ precision and versatility, with state media claiming they can target enemies both on land and at sea. Images released by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) showed blurred footage of the test but highlighted the destructive capability of the drones.
Global Shift in Drone Warfare
Kim emphasized the growing role of drones in modern military conflicts, noting their success in recent wars, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and various battles in the Middle East. Citing the effectiveness of drones like the Iranian-made Shahed 136, Kim stressed the need for North Korea to rapidly establish a serial production system to meet this “objective change” in warfare.
Growing Concerns Over North Korea-Russia Military Ties
The announcement comes amid increasing concerns in the West about North Korea’s military cooperation with Russia. The U.S. State Department recently reported that approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers have been deployed to Russia, allegedly engaging in combat in the Kursk region.
Ukraine has described these North Korean troops as a “significant resource” for Russia, freeing up Russian soldiers for offensive operations. However, reports from South Korea’s Defense Intellectual Agency suggest that North Korean troops lack adequate training in drone warfare.
Mutual Defense Treaty with Russia
The drone tests coincide with North Korea’s ratification of a mutual defense treaty with Russia, under which both countries pledge immediate military assistance if either is attacked. The treaty, signed during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Pyongyang in June, solidifies their alignment amid international sanctions and isolation.
South Korean Concerns
South Korea has expressed alarm over the potential implications of the North Korea-Russia partnership. Defense officials have raised concerns that North Korea might request advanced nuclear technology from Russia in exchange for military support.
Additionally, tensions with South Korea remain high. Pyongyang accused Seoul in October of flying propaganda drones over its territory, an accusation South Korea neither confirmed nor denied. In the past, North Korea has sent drones into South Korean airspace, with incidents reported as recently as 2022.
Kim Jong Un’s push for drone mass production follows a similar test in August and underscores his commitment to equipping North Korea’s military with advanced, low-cost technologies to counter superior adversaries.