Kim Jong Un Oversees Test of New North Korean Attack Drones

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen a test of new attack drones developed in North Korea, according to state media KCNA. On Monday, North Korean media released photos showing a white drone with X-shaped tails and wings striking a target resembling South Korea’s K-2 main battle tank.

Kim Jong Un, who was seen at a desk with advisers, has been focusing on modernizing North Korea’s military and advancing its weapons capabilities amid increasing tensions with the United States and South Korea. He conducted the test during a visit to the Drone Institute of North Korea’s Academy of Defense Science.

During the visit, Kim highlighted the growing significance of drones in modern warfare and stressed the need for North Korea’s military to adopt them quickly. He called for the accelerated development of various types of drones, including explosive drones for infantry and special operations, reconnaissance and multi-purpose attack drones, and underwater suicide drones.

In recent times, North Korea has been enhancing its tactical warfare capabilities, particularly with short-range missiles and heavy artillery aimed at South Korea. This follows significant progress in its long-range ballistic missile and nuclear programs, despite international sanctions.

The drone test coincides with a large-scale military exercise by the United States and South Korea, aimed at improving their joint defense capabilities against North Korean threats. These exercises are scheduled to continue until Thursday.