Post by : Rameen Ariff

Seoul: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised a test of an attack drone and instructed the military to expand the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its weaponry. The tests signal Pyongyang’s growing focus on modern technology in strengthening its armed forces.

Images released showed the unmanned drone taking off and successfully destroying a target. According to state reports, the exercise highlighted the “excellent combat effectiveness of Kumsong-series tactical attack drones”, with Kim expressing “great satisfaction” at the results.

Drones have become a top priority for North Korea’s military, with Kim emphasizing that they are a key asset for modernizing the army. He also ordered accelerated development of new AI technology and called for expanding drone production capabilities, aiming to enhance the North’s military efficiency and tactical flexibility.

Strategic Importance and Global Concerns

Analysts note that North Korea views drone technology as essential for achieving great power status. According to Hong Min of Seoul’s Korea Institute for National Unification, drones are low-cost but highly effective weapons, offering features such as autonomous missions, improved accuracy, and suitability for mass deployment.

Experts also point out that North Korea’s AI-driven drones could operate even if GPS or communication systems are jammed, relying on pre-trained algorithms to complete missions. The country has previously tested GPS jamming attacks on South Korean assets, disrupting both military and civilian operations.

Lessons from Russia

North Korea unveiled its first attack drones last year. Analysts suggest that its new capabilities may be influenced by technology transfers and military lessons from Russia, especially after North Korean troops were deployed to fight in the Kursk region in 2024. During this time, soldiers gained experience in modern warfare tactics, including drone operations. Reports indicate that over 600 North Korean soldiers were killed and thousands injured while supporting Russian forces.

Growing AI Focus

The North’s AI development drive has accelerated since 2024, combining domestic efforts with insights from the war in Ukraine and Russian technology. Experts warn that these developments may increase regional tensions, as North Korea continues to advance its autonomous weaponry and strategic capabilities.

Kim Jong Un’s emphasis on drones and AI reflects a modern approach to military power, aiming to strengthen North Korea’s defense systems, improve battlefield efficiency, and enhance its strategic deterrence against rivals.