Kim Jong Un Unveils New AI-Powered Missiles Resembling US Systems
Kim Jong Un Unveils New AI-Powered Missiles Resembling US Systems
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is modernising military equipment, recently overseeing tests of a new missile system resembling the US HIMARS – a truck-based weapon system deployed by Washington in Ukraine and the Middle East.
The system combines ballistic missiles and artillery rockets guided by an autonomous navigation system, according to North Korean state media on Wednesday.
HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) can fire and move, making it less vulnerable to drone attacks. Weapons experts say images from North Korean state media show a configuration and ammunition loading mechanism similar to the US HIMARS, which Pyongyang first displayed at a military parade last year.
Separately, a different mobile launcher fired tactical cruise missiles allegedly equipped with AI-supported guided targeting. These missiles are to be deployed near the border with South Korea and can conduct ‘ultra-precise’ strikes on any target within a 60-mile radius, state media reported.
Citing The Wall Street Journal, Kim stated his arsenal has been updated to align with modern warfare and instil ‘extreme anxiety and fear’ in enemies.
North Korea’s expanding nuclear arsenal serves as a deterrent against external military attacks. Its conventional forces require enhancement, a top priority in Kim’s new five-year arms modernisation plan, which includes improved naval capabilities and surveillance satellites.
Pyongyang also claims to have integrated AI into its weaponry. In February, Kim said its 600mm multiple rocket launcher uses AI, and last year he inspected suicide drones purportedly equipped with the technology.
The North Korean HIMARS-like launcher suggests Kim may be refining frontline capabilities and boosting prospects for arms exports to Russia, said Hong Min, a senior North Korea researcher at Seoul’s National Unification Institute, a government-affiliated think tank.