Overview

• Satellite imagery from April 6, 2025, confirms the construction of North Korea's largest warship, a guided-missile frigate, at the Nampho shipyard.
• The 140-meter vessel is designed to feature advanced systems, including vertical launch tubes and phased-array radar, reflecting a technical leap for North Korea's navy.
• Experts estimate that the integration of sophisticated weapon, sensor, and communication systems could delay the ship's sea trials by at least a year.
• The construction aligns with North Korea's broader naval upgrade strategy, which includes new shipbuilding facilities and a nuclear-powered submarine under development.
• Analysts suggest potential Russian technological support may be aiding North Korea in overcoming sanctions-related challenges for advanced military capabilities.