North Korea's Kim Jong Un Supervises Testing of New Reconnaissance and Combat Drones

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has been reported to oversee the testing of new reconnaissance and combat drones, according to state media. The tests involved various types of surveillance and kamikaze drones, as announced by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This development raises concerns regarding the deepening military collaboration between North Korea and Russia.

The reported kamikaze drones are unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with explosives, which have been extensively utilized in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where North Korea has been providing support to Russia. These drones are said to have the capability to track and monitor various strategic targets, as well as the activities of enemy troops both on land and at sea. They demonstrated their operational capacity, indicating their potential use for a range of tactical strike missions.

During his inspection, Kim emphasized the necessity of formulating a 'long-term national plan' aimed at enhancing the rapid deployment of intelligent drones. He stated that this aligns with the modern warfare trend, where competition over the use of advanced drones is a significant aspect of military power.

Additionally, the North Korean military introduced what appears to be a new airborne early warning system, which could potentially modernize the country's air defense capabilities. Reports suggest that this system may involve a modified Russian cargo aircraft.

Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, military cooperation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un has intensified. Recent observations from South Korea's military suggest that North Korea continues to supply Russia with missiles, artillery, and ammunition for its war efforts.

The West has long accused North Korea of providing Russia with weaponry and military supplies. According to reports from Ukraine and Western intelligence, North Korea has also dispatched thousands of soldiers to Russia to bolster Kremlin forces during their engagements with the Ukrainian military. Furthermore, there are apprehensions that in exchange for its support, Russia may provide military technology to North Korea.