North Korea has now publicly unveiled its first nuclear powered submarine marking a major military achievement and amid global concern.
Media of the State released photos on Saturday showing the submarine – described as a “nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine.” Leader Kim Jong Un was pictured visiting the submarine at a large shipyard, showing off the state’s drive to build up its underwater battle capacity.
Military analysts estimate the submarine to be between 6,000 and 7,000 tons and able to carry about ten missiles. South Korean defence analyst Moon Keun-sik said that use of term “strategic guided missiles” indicates that submarine is armed with nuclear capable projectiles which pose a direct threat to stability in the region. 
It is in line with Kim’s promise to expand North Korea’s armed forces with sophisticated weaponry, including hypersonic missiles and spy satellites. But uncertainties surround how heavily sanctioned nation managed to obtain technology and resources for advanced vessel. Some pundits suggest that possible Syria from Russia in exchange North Korean military aid are in Ukraine.
The reveal comes as the army of U.S.-South Korea military drills, set for later this week, sends tensions soaring. Analysts says North Korea’s capability to launch missiles from underwater makes difficult detection and defense schemes, changing the pure of dispatch in the district.
