North Korea revealed its new submarine, named “Hero Kim Kun Ok,” which, according to the country’s leader Kim Jong Un, possesses nuclear attack capabilities. This development marks a significant milestone for North Korea in its ongoing efforts to build a nuclear-armed navy as a countermeasure against the United States and its allies in the region. While South Korean officials remain skeptical about the submarine’s operational readiness, the unveiling highlights the North’s continuous efforts to expand its range of nuclear arsenal with stealthier and harder-to-detect systems.
Deeper Insights into the Submarine’s Specifications:
Although specific details regarding the number of missiles the submarine can carry and fire were not provided, experts suggest that the vessel appears to have at least 10 launch tubes. Of these, four appear to be larger, possibly designed for missiles. However, it is important to note that this heavily modified submarine is based on 1950s Soviet-origin technology, indicating inherent limitations. Nevertheless, the new submarine serves North Korea’s purpose by complicating the targeting challenges faced by the United States and its allies.
North Korea’s Pursuit of Nuclear-Armed Navy:
North Korea has been actively testing various missiles designed for submarine launches as part of its broader strategy to establish a credible underwater nuclear strike capability. The ability to conduct nuclear strikes from submarines adds a significant maritime threat to the nation’s existing arsenal of solid-fuel weapons on land. However, experts emphasize that building a fleet of fully operational submarines capable of executing reliable attacks will require substantial time, resources, and technological advancements, given the heavy sanctions imposed on the country.
The Symbolic Significance:
The unveiling of the new submarine coincided with the country’s 75th anniversary, symbolizing North Korea’s revolutionary power to strike fear into the hearts of its enemies. Kim Jong Un expressed satisfaction about the country’s acquisition of a nuclear attack submarine, while also revealing plans to pursue a nuclear-propelled submarine and upgrade existing submarines and surface vessels to handle nuclear weapons. Analysts suggest that North Korea’s focus on enhancing its navy might be driven by a desire to strengthen military cooperation with Russia, potentially exploring combined military exercises and discussing arms sales.
The Role of Russian Assistance:
Observers speculate that North Korea may seek support from Russia for advanced weapons technologies, including submarine-launched ballistic missile systems, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and military spy satellites. However, given Russia’s careful safeguarding of sensitive technologies, it remains uncertain if Moscow would be willing to share such capabilities. While North Korea’s pursuit of nuclear-propelled submarines is ambitious, it is likely that the nation will require external assistance in the near-term to realize this goal.
Concerns and Skepticism:
South Korean officials have expressed doubts about the submarine’s capabilities, suggesting signs of deception or exaggeration. The Joint Chiefs of Staff pointed out that the vessel’s appearance indicates it might not be operated normally and that the original submarine would have required significant modifications to accommodate missile launch systems.
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