In brief
North Korea has revealed plans to construct its first nuclear-powered submarine, amid rising tensions and fears of Russian military support for Pyongyang in exchange for troops aiding in Ukraine.
North Korea proclaimed over the weekend that it is in the process of building its inaugural nuclear-powered submarine aimed at bolstering its nuclear capabilities. This announcement surfaced from the nation's state media, accompanied by visuals of leader Kim Jong-un overseeing what looks like a new submarine, reportedly larger than any currently in the North's arsenal.The declaration coincides with heightened concerns from U.S. and South Korean officials, who suspect that North Korea may be benefitting from technological advancements provided by Russia. In exchange, North Korea purportedly sends troops and weaponry to support Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.During a recent inspection at an undisclosed naval shipyard, Kim Jong-un was reported to have learned about the construction of a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine, as stated by North Korea's official news outlet, the Korean Central News Agency. They showcased images suggesting that the submarine's hull is under assembly.Historically, North Korea’s submarine fleet has relied on outdated Soviet-era diesel-powered vessels, which necessitate regular resurfacing to recharge batteries during extensive travels across oceans. A shift to nuclear-powered submarines would substantially enhance North Korea's operational range, allowing for stealthy approaches to distant adversaries like the United States, potentially striking targets with nuclear missiles undetected.The state news service quoted Kim asserting that North Korea's naval might would be “fully displayed in any necessary waters without limitation,” a statement alluding to its growing ambitions on the global stage.
