Kim Jong Un supervises testing of AI-equipped suicide drones

Thursday 27 March 2025 - 14:08

By: Zahouani Ilham

Kim Jong Un supervises testing of AI-equipped suicide drones

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the testing of advanced AI-equipped suicide drones and reconnaissance drones, calling for their prioritization in the nation's military modernization. The drones, developed at North Korea's Unmanned Aerial Technology Complex, are designed to track strategic targets and monitor enemy activities both on land and at sea. The attack drones are intended for tactical missions, while both drone types feature new artificial intelligence capabilities.

Kim also directed the expansion of production for unmanned systems and AI, stressing the importance of long-term plans to accelerate the development of intelligent drones, which he highlighted as a key component of modern warfare. The tests, conducted over two days, demonstrated attack drones successfully hitting ground targets, including military vehicles. Kim was seen with aides near a newly developed reconnaissance aircraft, which appeared larger than a fighter jet, and inspecting an airborne early warning and control (AEW) plane.

The AEW aircraft, which was revealed for the first time, is equipped with a radar dome similar to South Korea’s Boeing-manufactured Peace Eye. North Korea's effort to develop an early warning aircraft had been previously noted when analysts discovered the country was modifying a Russian Il-76 cargo plane for this role.

Kim was also briefed on the latest electronic warfare capabilities, including new systems for intelligence gathering and electronic jamming. Meanwhile, South Korean officials have raised concerns about the potential transfer of Russian military technology to North Korea in exchange for military support in Russia’s war against Ukraine. South Korea’s military reports that North Korea has sent an additional 3,000 troops to Russia this year, along with missiles and ammunition.