North Korea Advances Military Technology with AI-Equipped Drones

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the testing of new suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the importance of unmanned control and AI in modern military advancements. According to the KCNA state news agency, Kim inspected upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of identifying tactical targets and tracking enemy activities both on land and at sea during an event reported on March 27, 2025. Kim asserted that the development of unmanned equipment and AI technologies should be prioritized in the nation’s weapons modernization efforts. He called for a long-term national program aimed at leading the global competition in intelligent unmanned aerial vehicles for military use. This development comes amidst an increased focus on drone technology, including kamikaze munitions, as North Korea strengthens military collaboration with Russia. North Korean troops have reportedly gained significant drone warfare experience through their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised tests of newly developed suicide drones featuring artificial intelligence technology, according to the state-run KCNA news agency on March 27, 2025. Kim emphasized that unmanned control and AI capabilities must be prioritized in the modernization of North Korea's military arsenal. During the inspection, Kim also reviewed upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of identifying tactical targets and enemy activities on both land and sea. "He stressed the importance of promoting a concerted, longer-term national program to lead in the competition of intelligent unmanned aerial vehicles for military purposes," KCNA reported. This initiative is seen as part of North Korea's broader effort to enhance its drone capabilities, including kamikaze munitions, amid increasing military cooperation with Russia. Reports indicate that North Korean troops are gaining battlefield experience in drone warfare, particularly in the context of Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The development of advanced unmanned systems suggests a significant shift in North Korea's military strategy and capabilities.

North Korea launched multiple unidentified ballistic missiles on March 10, 2025, coinciding with the start of the joint military exercise "Freedom Shield" involving the United States and South Korea. The drills, described as defensive, have been condemned by Pyongyang as a "provocative act" that risks igniting conflict. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported the launch, noting that the missiles were fired from Hwanghae province into the West Sea, also known as the Yellow Sea. The ongoing military drills run until March 20 and involve various types of training, including live exercises. Tensions have escalated on the Korean Peninsula, particularly after a recent incident in which South Korean fighter jets accidentally dropped bombs during a separate drill, injuring 31 people. Analysts suggest the significant military activities underscore the frosty relations between the two Koreas, which remain technically in a state of war since their conflict ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty. North Korea continues to react to US military presence in the region with missile tests, further complicating diplomatic efforts.