North Korea Advances Nuclear-Powered Submarine Development Amid Regional Tensions
North Korea has showcased significant progress on its nuclear-powered submarine project with state media images revealing an 8,700-ton-class submarine hull that appears largely completed. The country's leader, Kim Jong Un, visited a shipyard to personally inspect the construction of the vessel. Kim described the submarine's completion as an "epoch-making" change that would strengthen North Korea's nuclear deterrent against what it perceives as enemy threats.
Kim also criticized South Korea's push, backed by the United States, to acquire its own nuclear-powered submarine, calling it an offensive act that infringes on North Korea's security and sovereignty. He urged further nuclear armament of the North Korean navy in response.
While it remains unclear how close the submarine is to full completion, analysts note that the hull is near complete and suggest that the engine and possibly the nuclear reactor may already be installed. Experts believe the vessel could be ready for sea trials within months, as most equipment appears to have been installed.
This development follows North Korea's 2021 pledge to build a nuclear-powered submarine alongside other advanced military technologies, including a newly unveiled destroyer intended to enhance the reach of its nuclear forces. Analysts caution that international sanctions and resource limitations pose significant challenges to the program. Some suggest that North Korea may have received technological assistance from Russia, particularly regarding the reactor, while others argue the reactor may have been developed with limited Russian help.
In parallel regional developments, a November summit saw South Korean President Lee Jae Myung requesting U.S. support to develop nuclear submarines and pledging increased defense spending aimed at reducing America's security burden. However, broader diplomatic talks involving North Korea have remained stalled since 2019.
