Kim Jong-un Pushes for Drone Warfare Amid Escalating Tensions

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for the rapid development and production of 'suicide drones' to enhance military preparedness. The initiative comes amid increasing tensions in the Korean peninsula, with North Korea ramping up weapons tests and focusing on strengthening its nuclear capabilities.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has advocated for the development and production of more 'suicide drones' to boost war preparedness, amid escalating tensions on the Korean peninsula, according to a South Korean news outlet, Yonhap, reported Monday.

Based on reports by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim oversaw a performance test of various drones on August 24. The drones destroyed designated targets along preset courses during the test conducted by the Drone Institute of the Academy of Defense Sciences. These drones possess the capability to engage enemy targets on land, air, and sea.

Kim emphasized the necessity to develop and produce more suicide drones for use in infantry and special operations, as well as strategic reconnaissance and multi-purpose attacks. He also highlighted the importance of incorporating artificial intelligence into drone development.

Yonhap shared images from KCNA showing two white suicide drones hitting and destroying mock targets resembling K-2 tanks. This marked the first time North Korea exhibited such weaponry. Earlier this month, Kim revealed 250 new tactical nuclear-capable ballistic missile launchers to the country's forces.

In a speech, Kim remarked that the US-led alliance had evolved into a nuclear-powered military bloc, and Pyongyang would enhance its nuclear readiness to deter threats and respond to challenges. Yonhap reported that North Korea has been ramping up weapons tests, as Seoul and Washington strengthen America's commitment to using its military capabilities, including nuclear, to defend its ally.

North Korea has fired over 100 ballistic missiles since last year, including Hwasong-18 ICBMs. These are part of a high-tech arsenal, which also includes a military spy satellite and a nuclear-powered submarine. In December 2023, Kim called for an exponential increase in the nuclear arsenal and development of tactical nuclear weapons targeting South Korea.

A New York Times report noted that US President Joe Biden approved a classified document in March, instructing US forces to prepare for potential nuclear confrontations with Russia, China, and North Korea. In July, Quad foreign ministers criticized North Korea for its use of ballistic missile technology and nuclear ambitions, urging compliance with UN Security Council resolutions.

(With inputs from agencies.)