Drone Expansion: Kim Orders Rapid Growth After Missile Tests

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un directed a rapid expansion of the country's drone capabilities on Thursday, according to state media reports. The announcement followed a week of heightened military activity along the peninsula's fortified border.

South Korea's military announced on Wednesday that North Korea launched approximately ten short-range ballistic missiles toward the sea. Those firings marked the first such tests in 17 days, adding to a tense period between the two neighbors.

The Korean Central News Agency stated that Kim visited an exhibition showcasing various attack and utility drones. The display highlighted recent progress in unmanned aeronautical technology. Kim told attendees at the event that his government must seize absolute superiority in drone technology.

He announced unspecified measures to rapidly expand and strengthen the nation's unmanned systems. To mark the occasion, state media reported that North Korea conducted test launches of drones, missiles, and weapons from 600 mm-calibre ultra-precision multiple rocket launchers.

Photographs released by the agency showed Kim observing the weapons in flight. His teenage daughter, whom South Korean intelligence assesses is likely his heir, was seen clapping beside him. The girl is reportedly about 13 years old.

Tensions have risen sharply since last month, when land mines exploded at the border and wounded three South Korean soldiers. Seoul accused Pyongyang of burying the mines south of the military demarcation line and demanded an apology. North Korea denied responsibility and warned of retaliation if provoked.

Last week, North Korea threatened to resume propaganda loudspeaker broadcasts and deploy new weapons systems near the border. The country has withdrawn from talks with the United States and South Korea since 2019, when diplomacy between Kim and President Donald Trump collapsed. In recent weeks, Pyongyang has increased weapons testing, a move that may aim to bolster its position ahead of potential negotiations. Kim also made a surprise visit to a Chinese border town via a newly opened bridge on Saturday, pledging to deepen bilateral ties with his neighbor.