North Korea has revealed its first nuclear-powered submarine, a major milestone in its military development that is expected to heighten regional security concerns.
State media released images showing leader Kim Jong Un inspecting the 8,700-tonne vessel, which is designed to carry nuclear-capable missiles and remain submerged for long periods. Kim described the submarine as an «epoch-making change» in the nuclear arms race, signalling what analysts say could be a significant boost to Pyongyang’s deterrence capabilities.
Experts note that a nuclear-powered submarine would strengthen North Korea’s so-called second-strike capability, allowing it to retaliate even if land-based missile systems were neutralised. The development also complicates detection and defence planning for South Korea, Japan and the United States.
The unveiling comes amid speculation that North Korea may have received external technical assistance, possibly linked to its deepening ties with Russia, although Pyongyang has not confirmed any foreign involvement.
If fully operational, the submarine would place North Korea among a small group of countries, including the US, China and Russia, that possess nuclear-powered submarines, underlining the country’s growing technological ambitions despite international sanctions.
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