North Korea reveals first nuclear-powered submarine

North Korea has revealed its first nuclear-powered submarine, posing a significant security threat to South Korea and the US. State media released photos showcasing the submarine, dubbed “a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine,” during leader Kim Jong Un’s visit to major shipyards. The submarine’s development marks a major milestone in North Korea’s naval capabilities, providing a second-strike nuclear deterrent. Experts suggest that Russia may have played a role in helping North Korea overcome technical challenges in creating the nuclear-powered submarine. State media released images on Saturday showing leader Kim Jong Un visiting major shipyards where warships are being built. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) referred to the vessel as “a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine.” Experts suggest the submarine could be a 6,000 to 7,000-ton-class vessel, possibly carrying around 10 missiles. Moon Keun-sik, a South Korean submarine expert from Hanyang University, noted that the term “strategic guided missiles” likely means it will be armed with nuclear-capable weapons.