North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has declared the development of AI military drones a top priority calling for rapid integration of artificial intelligence into unmanned weapons systems to boost the country’s military capabilities. The announcement came during his visit to the Unmanned Aeronautical Technology Complex in Pyongyang where he oversaw drone performance tests.
Kim urged the fast development of AI enabled drones and expanding serial production to modernize North Korea’s defense forces. His visit followed the recent test of a solid fuel rocket engine for intercontinental ballistic missiles highlighting the regime’s ongoing military advancements.
Experts believe the introduction of AI military drones could significantly change regional security dynamics in Northeast Asia.
Such technology would enhance surveillance and attack capabilities giving North Korea an advanced edge over traditional military systems in the region.
Analysts note that North Korea has been collaborating in AI research with academics abroad mainly relying on Chinese expertise while deepening military ties with Russia. Despite supplying Moscow with weapons for the Ukraine war Pyongyang has received limited support in return mostly in food fuel and some military equipment.
With the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency describing North Korea as being in its strongest strategic position in decades Kim’s push for AI military drones underscores the country’s growing ambition to strengthen its military power and global presence.
