By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has commanded the mass production of attack drones, signaling a major escalation in the nation’s military capabilities.
The directive comes as concerns grow about the strengthening military ties between North Korea and Russia, which have sparked international scrutiny.
State-run media outlet KCNA reported that Kim’s decision to ramp up drone production follows a series of developments aimed at boosting North Korea’s defense capabilities. In August, Pyongyang first unveiled its attack drones, a move that experts believe is linked to its growing alliance with Russia, which has been providing technical support for North Korea’s weapons programs.
During a recent demonstration on Thursday, Kim Jong Un personally oversaw a test involving drones designed to strike both land and sea targets. The test reportedly showed the drones’ effectiveness, as they successfully hit their designated targets after flying along pre-programmed flight paths.
KCNA emphasized that Kim Jong Un expressed the urgent need to establish a serial production system for these drones, with the aim of achieving full-scale manufacturing in the shortest time possible. These unmanned drones, which are equipped with explosives, function as “suicide drones,” deliberately crashing into enemy targets and acting as guided missiles.
The state media further detailed that the new drones will be capable of operating across various ranges, allowing them to target both ground and maritime adversaries with precision. The continued development and deployment of such weaponry underline North Korea’s ongoing efforts to enhance its military deterrence capabilities amidst rising tensions in the region.
With these drones set to play a central role in future military strategies, North Korea’s investment in unmanned aerial technology marks a significant shift in its defense posture, potentially altering the balance of power in East Asia.