North Korea has released new images of what it claims is its first nuclear-powered submarine. The massive vessel reportedly weighs 8,700 tons. It is comparable to some of the United States’ attack submarines.
The photos, released by state media on Thursday, show leader Kim Jong Un inspecting the guided-missile submarine inside an indoor facility. This indicates it has not yet been launched.
A Long-Held Military Goal
Kim has pursued a nuclear-powered submarine for years. He first mentioned the plan at a party congress in 2021. However, recent developments may have added urgency. South Korea received approval from the Trump administration to develop its own nuclear-powered submarines. This appears to have prompted Pyongyang to speed up its efforts.
Nuclear-powered submarines offer several advantages. They can stay submerged for long periods. They are faster and quieter than conventional diesel submarines. Only a few countries currently have this technology, including the U.S., Russia, China, France, the U.K., and India.
Strategic and Security Implications
State media said the submarine displaces 8,700 tons. This makes it roughly equal to a U.S. Virginia-class attack sub. Kim called the vessel “the strongest offensive power.” He added that it is vital to North Korea’s defense strategy.
Kim also criticized South Korea’s nuclear submarine program. He described it as “an offensive act” that threatens North Korean security. Yet experts say North Korea itself has fueled tensions. Leif-Eric Easley, a professor at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, explained, “Pyongyang’s buildup increases instability on the Korean Peninsula. But Kim has contributed to this arms race.”
North Korea’s Military Buildup
Since 2021, Kim has overseen a large military buildup. This includes ballistic missiles, hypersonic glide vehicles, and guided-missile destroyers. Earlier this year, one destroyer capsized during launch. It was later repaired.
Even so, North Korea’s fleet still lags behind South Korea’s technologically. South Korea’s navy has some of the world’s most advanced destroyers and conventional submarines. However, North Korea may gain a speed advantage with nuclear-powered submarines. South Korea only recently received permission to build them. It could take a decade before its subs are ready.
Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that North Korea could conduct missile tests from the submarine within two years of launch. He also believes the vessel may already house a nuclear reactor, leaving only a few steps before deployment.
A Glimpse of the Future
The images also show Kim accompanied by his daughter, believed to be Kim Ju Ae. This has sparked speculation that he may be preparing a future successor.
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