Kim Jong Un Oversees Drone Tests, Urges Mass Production

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised tests of new reconnaissance and attack drones this week, pushing for increased production, state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Thursday. Images showed Kim inspecting a large reconnaissance drone and exploding models hitting targets, part of efforts to enhance military capabilities amid rising tensions. KCNA said the tests occurred during Kim’s visits to drone and warfare facilities on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Drones Feature Advanced Tracking and AI

KCNA reported the reconnaissance drone tracked multiple targets across land and sea, while attack drones, equipped with unspecified AI, handled various missions. Kim lauded the results, prioritizing drones and AI to modernize his forces. South Korea’s Defence Ministry offered no immediate comment. The tests follow similar demonstrations last year, reflecting North Korea’s ongoing military focus.

Tensions Rise with Russia Ties in Spotlight

Kim’s drone push comes amid escalating peninsula tensions and his support for Russia in Ukraine, raising concerns over potential Russian tech transfers, per AP and KCNA. Last year, North Korea accused South Korea of drone propaganda drops over Pyongyang claims Seoul neither confirmed nor denied while Kim’s nuclear-capable arsenal continues to target South Korea and possibly the U.S. mainland.