In an impressive display of military advancement, North Korea has been testing AI-powered suicide drones and reconnaissance drones, according to state media KCNA. Under the watchful eye of leader Kim Jong Un, these developments highlight the regime’s push to weave cutting-edge technology into its defense plans.
Kim Jong Un has made it clear that unmanned systems and artificial intelligence are at the forefront of his strategy to modernize military forces. This signals a shift towards embracing advanced tech capabilities.
During these tests, Kim was seen checking out upgraded reconnaissance drones. These have been fine-tuned to keep an eye on targets both on land and at sea. Plus, North Korea has rolled out airborne early-warning (AEW) aircraft, boosting its radar systems. A standout feature was a large four-engine aircraft with a radar dome, which many suspect is a modified Russian Il-76 cargo plane.
The AEW aircraft can effectively track low-flying planes and cruise missiles, tackling challenges like terrain and ground clutter, as KCNA reported.
Images from the tests also showed attack drones hitting their marks. This testing happened during Kim’s visit to a drone tech complex and an electronic warfare research group earlier this week.
In related news, North Korean troops are reportedly gaining hands-on experience in drone warfare while participating in Russia’s conflict in Ukraine. South Korean national security adviser Shin Won-sik mentioned that Russia has supplied Pyongyang with anti-air missiles and air defense systems, strengthening their military ties.
Seoul’s military noted that an additional 3,000 North Korean troops were sent between January and February to aid Russia’s efforts in the Ukraine war. Of the initial 11,000 soldiers deployed, around 4,000 have been reported killed or injured.
