North Korea’s Ambitious Leap into Nuclear-Powered Submarines
North Korea has unveiled its most ambitious naval project to date: the construction of its first nuclear-powered submarine. In a significant announcement made on Saturday, state-run media revealed that the country is actively working on a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine, a move that could significantly enhance its nuclear deterrent capabilities. The announcement was accompanied by photographs of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspecting what appeared to be the hull of a large submarine under construction at an unidentified naval shipyard. This marks the first time North Korea has publicly claimed to be building a nuclear-powered submarine, and the disclosure has sparked widespread concern among regional and global powers.
A Strategic Shift in Naval Capabilities
The development of a nuclear-powered submarine represents a major leap for North Korea’s military capabilities. Unlike its current fleet of aging Soviet-era diesel-powered submarines, which must resurface frequently to recharge their batteries, a nuclear-powered submarine can operate for extended periods without surfacing. This capability would allow North Korea to project power far beyond its territorial waters, potentially even across the Pacific, and strike at distant targets such as the United States with nuclear missiles without being detected. This would significantly enhance North Korea’s ability to Wage asymmetrical warfare and deter potential adversaries.
Kim Jong-un was quoted by state media as saying that North Korea’s naval might will soon be “fully displayed in any necessary waters without limitation.” While the claim is boastful, it underscores the regime’s determination to expand its military reach and challenge the dominance of regional and global powers. The unveiling of the submarine project comes at a time when North Korea is also reportedly modernizing its conventional military capabilities, including the development of hypersonic missiles and improved artillery systems.
Skepticism and Speculation Over Technological Feasibility
Despite the ambitious announcement, outside experts remain skeptical about North Korea’s ability to successfully build and deploy a nuclear-powered submarine. Such a project requires advanced engineering and technical expertise, including the development of a compact nuclear reactor capable of powering the vessel. North Korea’s current technological capabilities are doubted by many analysts, who believe the country may struggle to overcome the significant engineering challenges involved. However, there is growing speculation that Russia may be providing technological assistance to North Korea in exchange for military support in its war against Ukraine.
Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, suggested that North Korea’s submarine project could benefit from Russian expertise, particularly in navigating the complexities of nuclear reactor design and submarine construction. In return, North Korea has reportedly sent thousands of troops and large shipments of artillery shells and missiles to support Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. If true, this collaboration could accelerate North Korea’s military modernization and raise the stakes for regional security.
North Korea’s History of Submarine Development
North Korea has long relied on its submarine fleet as a key component of its naval strategy, though its existing submarines are outdated and limited in their capabilities. The country’s diesel-powered submarines are primarily used for coastal defense, espionage missions, and launching torpedo attacks. However, North Korea has been actively pursuing the development of missile-launching submarines since it began testing submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) about a decade ago.
In 2023, North Korea announced the completion of a “tactical nuclear attack submarine,” which it claimed was capable of launching nuclear missiles. However, South Korea’s military expressed skepticism about the vessel’s design and operational viability, pointing out abnormalities in its construction that suggested it may not be capable of normal operation. Independent experts have also questioned whether North Korea has successfully test-launched a missile from the submarine.
The Latest Development: A Larger and More Advanced Submarine
The newly unveiled submarine appears to be larger than the 2023 model, according to Hong Min, a North Korean military expert at the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul. While specific details about the submarine’s capabilities remain scarce, its designation as a “nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine” suggests that it is designed to carry both nuclear ballistic missiles and cruise missiles. This would represent a significant advancement in North Korea’s ability to deliver nuclear weapons at sea, further complicating the region’s security dynamics.
The announcement of the nuclear-powered submarine underscores North Korea’s commitment to enhancing its nuclear deterrent and expanding its military capabilities. While the technical challenges of building such a vessel are immense, the potential involvement of Russia could help North Korea overcome these hurdles. As tensions between North Korea and its adversaries continue to rise, the pursuit of cutting-edge military technology ensures that the reclusive regime remains a focal point of international concern.
