North Korean leader inspects project to develop nuclear-powered submarine

By Muhammed Enes Calli

ISTANBUL (AA) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a project to build a nuclear-powered submarine, Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Saturday.

The report also stated that "radically" boosting the navy is a crucial element of North Korea's defensive strategy.

Kim visited shipyards dedicated to constructing warships, though the exact date and location of the inspection were not disclosed.

He was briefed on the construction of a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine, a weapons system that can pose a major security threat to South Korea and the US.

In February, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reaffirmed his commitment to expanding the country’s nuclear forces, accusing the US of fueling global conflicts.

In 2023, North Korea launched the country's first tactical nuclear attack submarine although the South Korean military said that the vessel might not be operational at that time.