North Korea likely gets nuclear submarine technology from Russia

North Korea, a country that has faced sanctions and resistance from the international community regarding its nuclear ambitions, unveiled a new nuclear submarine that has raised concerns among experts. Reports from South Korean experts suggest that the submarine weighs between 6,000 and 7,000 tons, significantly larger than previous models. The submarine is claimed to be a strategic-guided missile submarine, which could potentially launch nuclear missiles with ranges approaching 7,500 miles. This development is viewed as a substantial evolution in North Korea's capabilities as a nuclear weapons state. The claims surfaced through North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which serves as the state's primary propaganda arm. Analysts believe that North Korea's indigenous technological capabilities are insufficient to have developed such advanced military technology independently. Observers speculate that Pyongyang likely sought assistance from Russia to achieve this milestone, especially during a period of deepening Russia-North Korea ties. Analysts suggest that Russia may have offered North Korea advanced submarine propulsion technology, which was the same technology alleged to have been provided to China in prior collaborations. Furthermore, the geopolitical implications are significant. As the relationship between Russia and North Korea strengthens, it raises alarms over the exchange of military technologies and the potential consolidation of the bloc often referred to as CRINK, which comprises China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. This alliance may result in further challenges for Western nations attempting to enforce sanctions on North Korea and counteract its growing nuclear capabilities. Despite this apparent technological advancement, experts express skepticism about North Korea's actual operational proficiency. The construction, maintenance, and operation of nuclear-powered submarines are highly complex. North Korea has no prior experience with such advanced naval technology, which adds doubt about whether the submarine can be effectively integrated into its naval fleet. Thus, while the unveiling of this submarine suggests a significant step forward for North Korea, the reality of its operational efficacy remains uncertain.