North Korean leader Kim Jong-un recently showcased an imposing 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine, issuing a foreboding message to neighboring nations. During a shipyard visit, the dictator proudly presented progress on the massive underwater vessel, emphasizing its significance in enhancing his country’s naval capabilities.
Reports from North Korea’s state media highlighted Jong-un’s inspection of the construction of the 8,700-ton-class nuclear-propelled submarine. He denounced South Korea’s attempts to acquire similar technology as provocative, accusing them of jeopardizing North Korea’s security and maritime sovereignty. The despot labeled the submarine’s completion as a pivotal move in bolstering the nation’s nuclear deterrent against perceived threats.
Accompanied by his daughter and senior officials, Jong-un’s visit to the assembly hall marked the first publicized images of the submarine since earlier in the year. While the exact completion timeline remains undisclosed, the revealed hull construction suggests significant progress in assembling crucial components like the engine or reactor.
The nuclear-powered submarine aligns with a series of advanced weaponry initiatives unveiled by Kim Jong-un in a recent political conference, citing the need to counter alleged military threats. Capable of stealthy operations and missile launches from beneath the surface, the submarine poses potential challenges for regional security.
This public appearance with his daughter echoes a previous event at a Chinese military parade, where Kim Ju Ae attracted attention. The secretive nature of her existence was only revealed in 2013 by a prominent basketball figure, adding intrigue to the dictator’s familial dynamics.