North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed tests of newly developed reconnaissance and attack drones, calling for increased production. The drones demonstrated the ability to track multiple targets and monitor troop movements on land and at sea. Kim approved plans to expand production of the drones and emphasized the importance of drones and AI in advancing North Korea’s armed forces for modern warfare.
This week’s tests were the latest in a series of demonstrations of exploding drones that North Korea has been developing, including drones that resemble the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail aircraft. Kim has been emphasizing the development of drones as part of his country’s growing military capabilities.
The South Korean Defense Ministry did not comment on the North Korean report, which also highlighted North Korea’s accusations against South Korea for sending drones to drop propaganda leaflets over Pyongyang in the past. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula have escalated as Kim expands his military capabilities, including nuclear-capable weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles.
Additionally, North Korea has aligned with Russia in the war in Ukraine, sending troops and military equipment to support Russia’s efforts. This has raised concerns about potential technology transfers between North Korea and Russia, further strengthening the threat posed by North Korea’s nuclear-armed military. South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff reported that North Korea sent around 3,000 additional troops to Russia in January and February, with approximately 4,000 of the 11,000 troops sent to fight in Ukraine being killed or injured.
