Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently inspected an ongoing project to develop a nuclear-powered submarine, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Saturday. The visit underscores North Korea's strategic emphasis on enhancing its naval capabilities as part of its broader defensive strategy.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim's inspection included visits to shipyards focused on constructing warships, although specific details about the timing and location were not disclosed. During the visit, Kim received briefings on the construction of a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine, a system that is viewed as a significant security threat by both South Korea and the United States.

Earlier in the year, in February, Kim Jong Un reiterated his commitment to the expansion of North Korea's nuclear forces, placing blame on the United States for exacerbating global conflicts. In line with this commitment, North Korea launched its first tactical nuclear attack submarine in 2023, although South Korean military assessments at the time suggested the submarine might not yet be fully operational.