Kim Jong-un orders 'massive production' of explosive drones

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ordered to prioritize “mass production” of explosive drones, by attending a performance test of this type of device in a factory on Thursday, November 14, according to official media. “He stressed the need to build a mass production system as soon as possible and move to mass production” of explosive drones, reported the North Korean news agency KCNA.

These types of devices are explosive-carrying drones designed to deliberately crash into enemy targets, acting like guided missiles. Pyongyang first unveiled its explosive drones in August, with experts saying they could be part of a strengthening of the country's alliance with Russia. During Thursday's test, the drones reached “accurately” targets after following predetermined trajectories, KCNA reported. “Suicide attack drones used at different striking distances have the mission to precisely attack all enemy targets on the ground and at sea”the agency said.

An “easy to use item”

Kim said drones were a “easy to use item” due to their relatively low production cost and wide range of applications, according to KCNA. He argued that North Korea had “recently attached to importance” to the development of unmanned equipment systems and their integration into the country's overall military strategy.

Experts have estimated that these drones, images of which were published by state media in August, resemble the Russian-made “Lancet-3”, as well as the Israeli-made “Harop” suicide drone and the “Hero 30” also Israeli. North Korea may have acquired these technologies from Russia, which in turn likely obtained them from Iran, with Tehran itself suspected of having gained access to them by hacking or stealing them from Israel.

This announcement comes at a time of tension between South Korea and North Korea, which recently fired a missile billed as the most advanced in its arsenal and is accused of sending thousands of soldiers to help Russia in its war against Ukraine.