North Korea announced the successful test of a new high-speed torpedo system in the East Sea, with plans to deploy it in the navy starting early 2027 as it advances its underwater attack capabilities.
North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Tuesday, 10 November, that the country successfully tested a new high-speed torpedo weapon system on Monday in the waters of the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan, with plans to deploy this weapon in the navy starting early 2027.
KCNA stated that the test was conducted by the Defense Science Institute, the Missile Administration, and the Torpedo Weapons Research Unit to verify the combat effectiveness of the new weapon system and to advance its technology. However, North Korean authorities did not disclose details regarding the torpedo's speed, range, performance, or launch system.
This test is part of North Korea's efforts to enhance its naval and underwater attack capabilities, following multiple weapons tests in recent weeks including attack drones, a new precision-guided torpedo system, and medium-range hypersonic missiles.
Earlier in October, North Korea announced testing of the Zam-2.0, a precision-guided high-speed torpedo which they described as a special high-speed weapon, claiming it is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology for target detection and guidance.
KCNA noted that the latest torpedo test focused on verifying technologies that improve propulsion efficiency and rocket thrust, following more than 180 tests conducted over five years.
Experts analyzed that torpedoes are designed to strike underwater enemy targets at high speeds, and if AI systems are successfully integrated, they could help the weapon evade interception and autonomously decide movement paths, making it harder for adversaries to detect and counter.
Additionally, last year North Korea unveiled a 5,000-ton destroyer, with Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un stating that the country is developing various new weapon systems, including weapons for surface ships and torpedoes, reflecting Pyongyang's ongoing efforts to expand its naval power.
.source:channelnewsasia
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