North Korea unveils nuclear-powered submarine under construction

North Korea has revealed its first-ever nuclear-powered submarine under construction, marking a significant escalation in its military capabilities. State media showcased images of what was described as a "nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine," with leader Kim Jong Un inspecting major shipyards involved in its development.

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The submarine is estimated to be a 6,000-7,000-ton-class vessel, capable of carrying around 10 missiles. Analysts suggest it will likely be armed with nuclear-capable weapons, posing a serious security threat to both South Korea and the United States.

This development aligns with Kim’s 2021 military roadmap, which included nuclear-powered submarines alongside intercontinental ballistic missiles, hypersonic weapons, spy satellites, and multi-warhead missiles. North Korea has since conducted extensive weapons testing to achieve these objectives.

A nuclear-powered submarine would enhance North Korea’s underwater strike capabilities, making missile launches harder to detect. However, questions remain about how the heavily sanctioned nation acquired the resources and technology to build such an advanced system. Experts speculate potential Russian assistance in exchange for conventional arms support in Ukraine.

Despite boasting one of the world’s largest submarine fleets, North Korea's vessels have traditionally been diesel-powered and limited to torpedoes and mines. While Pyongyang previously claimed to have developed a tactical nuclear attack submarine, many experts doubted its capabilities. The new project, if successfully completed, could significantly shift the regional security balance.