During his visit, Kim Jong Un was briefed on a submarine with a displacement of 8,700 tons and discussed new research on "secret underwater weapons." He also outlined "strategic plans regarding the reorganization of the Navy and the creation of new units," according to the Korean Central Telegraph Agency (KCNA).
Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of creating a strategic strike nuclear submarine to ensure the self-defense of the DPRK. He expressed concern over the joint efforts of South Korea and the United States in developing nuclear submarines, stating that this only exacerbates instability in the region. "We view this as an act of aggression that threatens our maritime sovereignty and security, and it must be responded to," he added.
According to the North Korean leader, Pyongyang must convey to the "enemies" that they will face consequences for encroachments on its strategic sovereignty. "If they decide to take military action, they will face relentless retaliatory strikes," noted Kim Jong Un. He also added that the DPRK will continue to strengthen its naval forces, improving both surface and underwater vessels, and combining them with new weapon systems.
In March of this year, Kim Jong Un visited a shipyard where he officially announced the start of construction of the country's first nuclear submarine, which will be part of advanced weapon systems. These systems also include spy satellites and solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missiles. According to South Korean news agency Yonhap, North Korea currently possesses 150 nuclear warheads and may increase that number to more than 400 by 2040.
