Kim Jong Un Urges Drone Development Amid Successful Suicide Drone Tests

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un witnessed successful tests of new suicide drones capable of destroying test targets and called for further integration of AI technology in these unmanned vehicles. The drones, tested on Saturday, successfully identified and destroyed targets. North Korea plans to enhance drone usage in military operations.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed a successful test of new 'suicide drones' as they destroyed designated targets, urging for further AI development in unmanned vehicles, state media reported Monday.

Kim visited the Academy of Defence Sciences' Drone Institute on Saturday, commending the drones' accuracy in identifying and hitting their targets after flying predetermined routes, according to KCNA.

Kim called for mass production of these drones for use in various military units. Known as loitering munitions, such drones have seen usage in conflicts like Ukraine and the Middle East, functioning by flying and crashing into targets with built-in warheads. Photos suggest some designs resemble Russia's ZALA Lancet and Iran's Shahed drones.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff highlighted historical military exchanges between North Korea, Russia, and Iran, indicating a possible link between the drone designs. Seoul's Unification Ministry confirmed this as Pyongyang's first reveal of suicide drones.

In response, South Korea plans to deploy laser weapons to counter Northern drones, becoming the first to operate such technology. Additionally, anti-aircraft measures in Seoul and joint military drills with the U.S. aim to enhance drone defense capabilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)