North Korea Tests Submarine-Launched Cruise Missiles, Reports KCNA

By Jack Kim

SEOUL (Reuters) – North Korea conducted tests of its new submarine-launched cruise missiles (SLCM) on Sunday, marking the second upgrade test within a week as the nation advances its naval nuclear capabilities, according to state media reports.

Leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the launch of the missile known as "Pulhwasal-3-31," which resembles the strategic cruise missiles previously tested by North Korea. These developments are part of the country’s initiative to enhance its military arsenal.

The state news agency reported that the missiles traveled over the waters off the eastern coast of North Korea for durations of 7,421 seconds and 7,445 seconds, striking an undisclosed island target, suggesting the missiles were in flight for more than two hours.

Kim lauded the test as a success, stating it holds "strategic significance in carrying out the plan for modernizing the army aimed at building a powerful naval force."

South Korea’s military confirmed on Sunday that multiple cruise missiles were launched off North Korea’s coast but did not disclose further specifics. On Monday, they contested the claimed flight durations, asserting that they monitored the missiles in real-time and downplayed the likelihood that solid fuel was used in their propulsion.

Last week, North Korea announced testing of a new strategic cruise missile intended to potentially accommodate a nuclear warhead, although details regarding its development for submarine launch were not initially released.

Images published by state media depicted a missile being launched from the water, obscured by smoke, making it unclear from which platform the missile was fired.

Generally, North Korea’s cruise missiles are less contentious and are not outright prohibited by U.N. Security Council resolutions. However, analysts warn that intermediate-range cruise missiles present a significant threat comparable to ballistic missiles.

In recent months, North Korea has performed various weapons tests, including developmental ballistic missile systems and an underwater drone.

Further reports indicated that Kim inspected the construction of a nuclear submarine and discussed other new warship developments, although specifics were not provided.

Last year, North Korea claimed to have launched its first operational nuclear attack submarine, which appeared to be a modification of an existing design, likely intended for carrying ballistic and cruise missiles. Experts express skepticism regarding the practical use of such a vessel compared to more advanced land-based missile systems, particularly due to its noisy diesel propulsion and limited range.

South Korea’s military expressed doubt regarding the submarine’s military utility, suggesting that it seems to be undergoing repairs or maintenance. Kim previously stated intentions to accelerate the program for developing nuclear-powered submarines.