2024-11-15 00:16:00
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ordered to establish priorities “mass production” of explosive drones, participating, on Thursday 14 November, in an operational test of this type of device in a factory, according to official media.
“He emphasized the need to build a mass production system as soon as possible and move to mass production” of explosive drones, North Korean news agency KCNA reported.
These types of devices are explosive-carrying drones designed to deliberately crash into enemy targets, acting like guided missiles.
Pyongyang first unveiled its explosive drones in August, with experts saying they could be part of a strengthening of the country’s alliance with Russia.
During Thursday’s test the drones reached “precisely” targets after following predetermined trajectories, KCNA reported. “Suicide attack drones used at different attack distances have the mission to precisely attack all enemy targets on land and at sea”the agency said.
Relatively low production cost
Kim said the drones were a “easy to use item” thanks to the relatively low production cost and wide range of applications, according to KCNA. He claimed that North Korea had done so “recently given importance” to the development of unmanned equipment systems and their integration into the country’s overall military strategy.
Experts said the drones, images of which were published by state media in August, resemble the Russian-made Lancet-3, as well as the Israeli-made Harop suicide drone and the Israeli Hero-30.
North Korea may have acquired these technologies from Russia, which in turn likely obtained them from Iran, with Tehran itself suspected of having gained access to them by hacking or stealing them from Israel.
This announcement comes at a time of tension between South Korea and North Korea, which recently launched a missile considered the most advanced in its arsenal and is accused of sending thousands of soldiers to help Russia in its war against ‘Ukraine.
What are the potential global security implications of North Korea’s explosive drone capabilities?
Interview: The Rise of Explosive Drones in North Korea
Time.news Editor: Alex Thompson
Expert: Dr. Lisa Chang, International Security Analyst
Alex Thompson (AT): Welcome, Dr. Chang. Thank you for joining us today on Time.news to discuss the recent developments in North Korea, particularly the country’s push towards mass production of explosive drones.
Dr. Lisa Chang (LC): Thank you for having me, Alex. It’s a critical topic, especially considering the implications for regional security.
AT: Indeed. Could you elaborate on the significance of Kim Jong-un’s recent order to prioritize the mass production of these explosive drones?
LC: Absolutely. This move signals a major shift in North Korea’s military strategy. Explosive drones, which are designed to crash into targets like guided missiles, enhance their offensive capabilities significantly. By focusing on mass production, North Korea is effectively looking to bolster its operational flexibility and strike capabilities.
AT: The KCNA reported that these drones performed successfully in operational tests, hitting predetermined targets accurately. How does this development align with North Korea’s military objectives?
LC: It shows that North Korea is not merely developing technology but operationalizing it. The fact that they can hit targets “precisely” after following predetermined trajectories indicates a level of sophistication that could change the tactical landscape. North Korea likely sees these drones as relatively low-cost, high-impact weapons that can be deployed effectively against both land and sea targets.
AT: You mentioned cost-efficiency; how important is that in the context of North Korea’s military ambitions?
LC: Very important. Kim Jong-un referred to these drones as “easy to use” and with a “relatively low production cost.” This is a strategic advantage for a country that faces resource constraints. By investing in drone technology, North Korea can achieve significant military gains without requiring the extensive resources needed for traditional armaments.
AT: There are concerns about the potential implications of North Korea’s alliance with Russia amidst this drone development. Can you share your thoughts on that?
LC: Certainly. The timing of North Korea unveiling these drones coincides with strengthening ties with Russia, especially in light of their mutual defense interests. This relationship could allow North Korea to gain access to advanced technologies and support, further enhancing their military capabilities. Conversely, it raises alarms for neighboring countries and the U.S., which might feel threatened by a more militarized North Korea collaborating closely with Russia.
AT: With all these developments, what should the international community focus on to address the growing threat from North Korea?
LC: Diplomacy is key. While sanctions and military deterrence play a role, engaging in open dialogues is crucial to manage tensions. The international community needs to address not only North Korea’s proliferation of drone technology but also the underlying geopolitical issues that fuel these advancements. Collaborative security solutions and frameworks could potentially mitigate the threat posed by these explosive drones.
AT: Thank you, Dr. Chang, for sharing your insights on these alarming developments. It’s crucial that we continue to monitor North Korea’s advancements and their implications for global security.
LC: Thank you for having me, Alex. It’s an important discussion, and I hope awareness leads to strategic responses that can ensure regional stability.
This interview highlights the pressing issues surrounding the proliferation of military technology in North Korea, illustrating the need for global engagement and dialogue.