North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test of new exploding drones designed to crash into targets, aimed at enhancing the military’s war readiness. The test, which took place on Saturday, involved drones flying various routes before accurately hitting test targets. Kim emphasized the importance of drones in modern combat and called for the accelerated development and production of advanced drones.
Meanwhile, the U.S. and South Korea are conducting drills to enhance their combined capabilities to defend against North Korean threats. The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises, focusing on readiness against nuclear threats, will continue through Thursday. Additionally, the allies have begun an amphibious landing drill involving aircraft and vessels from their navies and marines to improve combat interoperability.
North Korea and Russia have been aligning closely, with Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin holding summits last year. Analysts suggest that North Korean drones resemble Russian drones, leading to speculation that there may have been exchanges between the countries. Russia is accused of receiving munitions from North Korea in exchange for economic aid and technologies for the North’s nuclear-armed military.
Kim has been expanding weapons targeting South Korea, including short-range missiles and artillery systems. He recently marked the delivery of nuclear-capable missile launchers to frontline military units, raising concerns about his weapons program. Analysts believe Kim may be escalating pressure in a U.S. election year to achieve his long-term goals of being recognized as a nuclear power and negotiating concessions from a position of strength.
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