Kim Jong Un calls for mass production of suicide drones following successful tests

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has directed the rapid production of suicide attack drones after observing successful performance tests, state media reported on Friday.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) detailed Kim’s oversight of various drone models developed by a North Korean drone technology institute and affiliated companies. The drones, often referred to as loitering munitions, demonstrated their capability by executing precision strikes on land and sea targets along pre-set tactical routes.

Images released by KCNA depicted a drone hitting what appeared to be a BMW vehicle, leading experts to speculate on North Korea’s potential strategy of deploying these drones against high-value targets.

Kim commended the performance and strategic value of the drones, underscoring their role as cost-effective weapons that are simple to produce yet capable of targeting tanks and other military assets. He stressed the need to accelerate mass production, pointing to the global competition in drone integration within military systems.

“The drones are not only versatile but are also crucial to adapting to modern military strategies,” Kim said, according to KCNA. He affirmed North Korea’s capacity to produce a range of drones and explore new tactical applications for current warfare scenarios.

The inspection was described as a “pivotal moment” for North Korea’s national defense, with state media highlighting drones as essential tools to bolster the nation’s security and counter perceived external threats.

Kim’s emphasis on unmanned systems reflects North Korea’s focus on advancing its military capabilities amid rising tensions in the region.