North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen a test of new "suicide drones" capable of destroying targets, including a mock tank, according to state media reports.
The demonstration, which took place on Saturday, showcased the unmanned vehicles' ability to identify and eliminate designated targets after following preset flight paths. Reuters reported that Kim urged researchers to develop artificial intelligence for these drones during his visit to the Drone Institute of North Korea's Academy of Defence Sciences.
The test marks a significant development in North Korea's military capabilities, particularly in unmanned aerial vehicles. Kim called for increased production of suicide drones for use in tactical infantry and special operation units. He also emphasized the need for underwater suicide attack drones, as well as strategic reconnaissance and multi-purpose attack drones, demonstrating the regime's focus on expanding its drone arsenal.
Suicide drones, also known as loitering munitions, have gained prominence in recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine and various Middle Eastern conflicts. These weapons are designed to remain airborne and ready to strike before a specific target is identified. Once a target is located, they attack by crashing into it with a built-in warhead.
The North Korean state media released photographs showcasing at least four different types of drones. Some of these unmanned vehicles were launched using small rocket engines before transitioning to propeller-driven flight. This variety suggests a range of capabilities and potential applications for the North Korean military.
When questioned about the visual similarities between some of the North Korean drones and Russian and Iranian models, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) spokesperson stated that further analysis would be necessary. The JCS acknowledged past exchanges of drone technology between North Korea and Russia, indicating the need for a thorough examination of potential performance improvements.
The unveiling of these suicide drones by North Korea has raised concerns in neighboring South Korea. Seoul's Unification Ministry noted that this was the first time Pyongyang had revealed such weapons. The development comes in the wake of a 2022 incident where several North Korean drones crossed the border into South Korea, briefly entering a no-fly zone near Seoul's presidential office before returning.
In response to the growing drone threat, South Korea has announced plans to deploy laser weapons to counter North Korean drones this year. This initiative would make South Korea the world's first country to deploy and operate such weapons in its military. Additionally, some skyscrapers in Seoul now host anti-aircraft guns on their roofs as a precautionary measure.
The timing of this drone test coincides with the annual summertime military exercises conducted jointly by South Korea and the United States. These exercises, which began last week, include practicing responses to potential North Korean drone incursions, highlighting the seriousness with which Seoul and its allies view the evolving threat.
North Korea's close ties with Russia and Iran, both of which have experience with similar drone technologies, have come under scrutiny. The country has a history of military cooperation with both nations, raising questions about the potential transfer of drone technology and expertise.
The JCS spokesperson commented on this issue, stating:
We understand that some gifts (drones) were given in an exchange between North Korea and Russia in the past... We need to analyse various measures to see if those have improved performance.
This statement underscores the ongoing concerns about technology sharing between North Korea and other nations with advanced military capabilities, particularly in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles.
North Korea's recent demonstration of "suicide drones" represents a significant advancement in its military technology. The test, overseen by Kim Jong Un, showcased the drones' ability to identify and destroy targets autonomously. This development has raised concerns in South Korea, prompting defensive measures such as the planned deployment of laser weapons. The event also highlights the ongoing military exercises between South Korea and the United States, which now include strategies to counter drone threats.
