North Korea claims to have its first nuclear submarine
A missile fired from a non-nuclear North Korean submarine in 2021. (Photo: KCNA)
If its claims are true, the submarine could have a significant impact on other navies in the region and potentially on US foreign policy.
In early March, North Korean media claimed the country had built its first nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine.
Details on the submarine from the Korean Central News Agency were non-existent, though the Agency explained that Kim Jong Un, the country’s leader, had been briefed on its construction.
Subsequently, a South Korean submarine expert told the Associated Press that the submarine in question looked like a 6,000t or 7,000t model, with the capability to carry around 10 missiles.
The expert, Moon Keun-sik, added that the use of the term “strategic guided missiles” meant it would carry nuclear-capable weapons.
Subsequent speculation in
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs]()
South Korea advances next-gen naval concepts for future force needs
HHI and Hanwha Ocean outline highly autonomous and unmanned-enabled designs as the ROKN explores force structure for the 2030s and beyond.
-
![US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026]()
US representatives plan to invest $1.6 billion in US Coast Guard inventory in FY2026
The FY26 Homeland Security Bill Markup of the House Committee on Appropriations included resources for the procurement of ships, aircraft and unmanned systems.
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer
The sixth Canada’s Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship is currently at the final stages of construction within Irving Shipbuilding.
