North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the testing of suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology and declared that the development of autonomous devices and artificial intelligence should be a top priority in modernizing the armed forces, state news agency KCNA reported on Thursday.
During the inspection, Kim also reviewed new improved reconnaissance drones capable of detecting various tactical targets and enemy activities on land and at sea. He stressed the importance of independent military equipment for the country's defense.
For the first time, North Korea has officially unveiled an aerial surveillance plane, a new tool that Pyongyang says can improve its aging air defense systems. Photos released by state media showed Kim riding a large four-engine plane with a radar mounted on its fuselage.
Analysts have previously reported that North Korea has converted Russian Il-76 aircraft for use as surveillance aircraft. According to the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, such an aircraft would help compensate for the limitations of the country's ground-based radars.
However, one such aircraft alone would not be enough for effective defense, and North Korea could be forced to utilize parts of its existing fleet of transport aircraft to build more units.
South Korea has expressed doubts about the aircraft's operational capabilities, noting that it could be easy to intercept by air defenses.
In addition, Kim inspected new equipment for reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, electronic jamming and attack systems. Photos from military tests showed a drone hitting a tank-shaped target and bursting into flames.
North Korean troops deployed in Russia's war against Ukraine are thought to have gained valuable experience in drone warfare, improving their battlefield capabilities. (A2 Televizion)
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