North Korea has taken a significant step in its technological development in the defense sector by testing kamikaze unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) powered by artificial intelligence. On March 27, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the testing of these new technology UAVs, according to state media. Kim Jong Un emphasized the importance of autonomous control and artificial intelligence capabilities being a priority in modern weapons systems, and stated that further progress should be made in these areas.
Kamikaze UAVs and Increasing Reconnaissance Capacity
In tests overseen by Kim Jong Un, North Korea’s newly developed kamikaze drones were capable of detecting a variety of tactical targets on land and at sea and monitoring enemy activity. According to state media, the drones are designed as high-tech weapons that can be used for a wide range of reconnaissance missions. North Korea, which also has nuclear weapons capabilities, has also unveiled its first airborne early warning and control aircraft. The aircraft are a significant development in strengthening the country’s aging air defenses.
Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft Introduced
Another major development overseen by Kim Jong Un was the introduction of North Korea’s new airborne early warning and control aircraft. According to state media, the aircraft includes new technologies for reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, electronic jamming and attack systems. It is also reported that the aircraft is a Russian-made Il-76 transport aircraft converted for the early warning role. Previous analyses had suggested that such aircraft could strengthen the limited effectiveness of ground-based radar systems in North Korea’s mountainous terrain.
Russia's Technological Support to North Korea
Russia’s influence also plays a major role in North Korea’s defense industry development. The South Korean Army has stated that the operational capabilities of the Russian-made Il-76 aircraft have not yet been determined, but that they are apparently large, heavy, and likely vulnerable to defense. This could be interpreted as an indication of Russia’s technology transfer to North Korea. In recent years, it has also been reported that Russia has provided North Korea with air defense missiles and other air defense equipment. This support is making a significant contribution to the development of North Korea’s air defense capacity.
North Korea's Technological Advancement and Future Steps
These new developments by North Korea are creating a situation that is being watched closely in terms of both regional and global security. In particular, the equipping of kamikaze UAVs with artificial intelligence technologies means a significant transformation in the country's defense strategy. In addition, the introduction of airborne early warning and control aircraft is considered a step that will reinforce North Korea's progress in defense technologies.
Following these developments, North Korea’s forward-looking strategic moves in the defense industry have the potential to affect the military balance in the region. Furthermore, increased cooperation with Russia could further strengthen the country’s defense power.
