Overview
- KCNA released images of what it says is an approximately 8,700‑ton nuclear‑powered submarine as Kim Jong Un toured a production hall, though the vessel’s operational status remains unclear.
- Kim ordered a faster nuclear arming of the navy and approved continued rocket development over the next five years, with factory modernization plans to be presented at a party meeting in early 2026.
- State media reported tests of “new high‑flying” long‑range air‑defense rockets that allegedly struck decoy targets at 200 kilometers over the East Sea, a claim that has not been independently verified.
- Independent outlets and analysts questioned whether the submarine shown was finished or functional, noting the lack of disclosed technical details and suggesting it could be a mock‑up or incomplete hull.
- KCNA linked the moves to South Korea’s U.S.-backed push for nuclear‑powered submarines and criticized the recent port call of the USS Greeneville in Busan as heightening tensions.