Click to see full-size image. Source: the Korean Central News Agency.
North Korea has launched of its first submarine capable of launching nuclear weapons, to further strengthen its naval forces.
The submarine, named “Hero Kim Kun Ok” after a North Korean naval officer and historical figure, was launched to much fanfare at a ceremony attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on September 6, according to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
In photographs released by KCNA, Kim is seen standing in a shipyard, surrounded by naval officers, and overshadowed by an enormous black submarine.
Click to see full-size image. Source: the Korean Central News Agency.
Click to see full-size image. Source: the Korean Central News Agency.
Click to see full-size image. Source: the Korean Central News Agency.
The North Korean leader was quoted as saying that the submarine will be one of the navy’s main means of “underwater offensive.”
“The nuclear attack submarine, which has been a symbol of aggression against our nation for the past few decades, now symbolizes our threatening power that strikes fear into our unscrupulous enemies,” Kim said.
In its first comment on the news, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff questioned the claims by Northern Korea, saying the new submarine appear “not capable of normal operation,” and warned there were clear attempts to exaggerate its capabilities.
Japan has also expressed unease. Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said North Korea’s military activity is “posing a graver and more imminent threat to our country’s security than before”, according to Reuters.
While it is unclear yet if the new submarine is nuclear-powered, it does appear to be capable of carrying nuclear-armed ballistic missiles like the Pukguksong-1 and 3 which have been already successfully tested by North Korea.
The submarine was revealed just a few days ahead of the 75th anniversary of the North’s founding. State media have said a Chinese delegation will be sent to participate in the celebrations.
The revelation also came amid reports that the North Korean Leader plans to travel to Russia this month to meet President Vladimir Putin.
how long until this garbage boat will sink itself?
not long after it nukes us bases on korean penninsula or okinawa
angry neo-liberalist spotted!
it won’t. it’ll sink us warships
…isn’t it the point of a submarine to sink deep as quickly as possible??? 😬
i thought the country was broke.lol✌
the sub should visit the us coastline lol