North Korea recently announced the development of what it claims to be its first nuclear-powered submarine, a move that could significantly alter the balance of power on the Korean Peninsula and beyond. This new vessel is said to be capable of carrying up to ten nuclear weapons and potentially threaten targets as far as the American continent.
The revelation comes at a time of heightened tension in the region, with joint military exercises between the United States and South Korea taking place in early 2025. Experts are scrutinizing Pyongyang’s ability to independently produce such advanced technology, while the international community watches closely for confirmation of the submarine’s true capabilities.
A New Strategic Asset for North Korea
According to the North Korean Central News Agency, the submarine is described as a “strategic missile submarine with nuclear propulsion.” Experts from South Korea estimate its displacement between 6,000 and 7,000 tons, placing it in a similar size class as the conventional submarine Hero Kim Kun Ok, which entered service in 2023. The vessel’s capacity to carry multiple nuclear weapons marks a significant development in Pyongyang’s military arsenal.
This submarine’s range reportedly allows it to strike targets across great distances, with the capability to launch missiles like the Pukguksong-6, which has an estimated range of nearly 12,070 kilometers. Such a weapon system would provide North Korea with a credible second-strike option, thereby reinforcing its deterrent posture.
International Skepticism and Possible Foreign Assistance
Despite North Korea’s claims, doubts remain about the country’s technological capacity to develop a nuclear-powered submarine. The design and technology on which Pyongyang currently relies are largely based on outdated Soviet models. The challenge of miniaturizing nuclear reactors suitable for submarines is considerable, even though some experts attribute technical progress in this field to North Korea since 2013.
There are also rumors of possible technical support from Russia, a country historically reluctant to share cutting-edge military technology with North Korea. If such assistance exists, it could signal a shift in Russia’s approach, but no definitive evidence has been publicly confirmed.
Broader Implications for Regional Security
The introduction of a nuclear-powered submarine capable of carrying strategic missiles complicates the defense landscape for the United States, South Korea, and Japan. The existing missile defense systems may face challenges countering such a stealthy and mobile nuclear threat. This development coincides with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s recent declarations to expand his nuclear arsenal substantially, heightening uncertainty in the region.
According to the report on Armees, this new submarine could disrupt ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in the Asia-Pacific, as it increases the offensive capabilities of North Korea and raises new questions about defense strategies among regional powers.
