Overview

• North Korea has publicly disclosed its first nuclear-powered submarine under construction, a vessel reportedly capable of carrying up to 10 nuclear-capable missiles.
• State media released images of Kim Jong Un visiting a shipyard to review the project, marking a significant step in his 2021 pledge to modernize the country's naval forces.
• Experts suggest the submarine could enhance North Korea's ability to launch underwater missile strikes, which are harder to detect, raising security concerns for South Korea and the U.S.
• Speculation exists that Russia may have provided technological assistance in exchange for North Korean support in the Ukraine war, though this remains unconfirmed.
• The announcement coincides with heightened tensions and upcoming U.S.-South Korea military drills, which North Korea views as a threat to its sovereignty.