Kim Jong Un Calls for Absolute Drone Supremacy in North Korean Military

OPA WIRE, Oct 30 (OPA) — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has demanded that his military achieve absolute superiority in drone technology, according to state media reports. During a visit to an unmanned aerial vehicle exhibition and weapons display, Kim emphasized that integrating advanced artificial intelligence into unmanned systems is a primary objective for modernizing the nation's armed forces.

The exhibition showcased a range of hardware, including suicide drones, tactical cruise missiles, and 600-millimeter multiple rocket launchers. This display of force coincided with reports from the South Korean military, which confirmed that Pyongyang launched approximately 10 projectiles, including short-range ballistic missiles, on Thursday.

Kim has consistently prioritized the development of autonomous weapons systems throughout 2025. Following his November 2024 order for the mass production of suicide drones, he oversaw tests of AI-equipped models in March 2025. State media reports indicate that the leader views these technological advancements as an essential requirement for maintaining military readiness in an era of shifting combat tactics.

Intelligence assessments from Seoul suggest that North Korea has gained significant operational experience through its ongoing military cooperation with Russia. Since October 2024, Pyongyang has deployed more than 16,000 personnel to support Russian operations in Ukraine, providing North Korean forces with practical exposure to electronic warfare and drone-integrated combat strategies.