PYONGYANG—North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently supervised the testing of various drone technologies, explicitly advocating for an increase in the production of suicide drones to bolster the nation’s military readiness.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Drone Institute of the Academy of Defence Sciences conducted the tests on Saturday under Kim’s oversight. The drones demonstrated their capability by following preset flight paths and successfully hitting designated targets. These tests were designed to simulate attacks on both terrestrial and maritime objectives. Kim Jong-un emphasized the strategic importance of diversifying the drone fleet and enhancing their combat effectiveness to fortify war preparedness. He called for an increase in the production of suicide drones to support tactical infantry and special operations units, as well as to fulfill roles in strategic reconnaissance and multi-purpose attacks.
Further enhancing the military’s technological edge, Kim highlighted ongoing projects to develop underwater strategic weapons and suicide attack drones. He also advocated for the integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the development of North Korea’s drone programs, aiming to advance the capabilities and efficiency of future unmanned systems.