[Yang Nak-gyu's Defence photo] SLBM Threat Realized... North Korea's First Tactical Nuclear Submarine Unveiled
North Korea has built the ‘Kim Gun-ok Hero Ship’ (No. 841), its first tactical nuclear attack submarine capable of launching nuclear attacks underwater. The new submarine, estimated to be able to carry up to three submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), is expected to be equipped with a new type of SLBM at least equivalent to the ‘Pukguksong-3’ model.
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In his congratulatory speech at the launching ceremony, Chairman Kim stated, "The No. 841 ‘Kim Gun-ok Hero Ship’ being launched today is the standard model of the tactical nuclear submarine intended to convert our navy’s existing medium-sized submarines into attack-type submarines, as mentioned last Navy Day." He made it clear that the construction of the tactical nuclear attack submarine is aimed at countering the United States’ nuclear-powered submarine forces. Until now, the only submarine from which North Korea has test-fired SLBMs was the whale-class submarine (2,000 tons) named ‘8.24 Hero Ship.’ The ‘8.24 Hero Ship’ can carry only one SLBM and cannot conduct prolonged underwater operations, leading the U.S. to assess it as having practically low military effectiveness.
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Chairman Kim also announced plans to convert the existing medium-sized submarines into attack-type submarines capable of carrying tactical nuclear weapons, and to strengthen naval power by improving the armament systems and underwater endurance of both the existing and new submarines. Among the ‘five strategic weapons’ that Kim Jong-un declared in January 2021 as must-develop priorities, nuclear submarine-related technology is considered a top priority. North Korea views nuclear submarines as a ‘game changer’ that could alter the dynamics of negotiations with the U.S.
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