© A S☫heil presentation; First published 8 September 2023; Updated 16 September 2023


1. Table of Contents Updated 8 September 2023

2. Introduction

3. Background Updated 14 September 2023

4. First on-the-spot field guidance Updated 9 September 2023

5. Launching ceremony

6. Specs Updated 16 September 2023

7. Future plan

8. Conclusion


Iran's bid to possess a nuclear triad at the core of a credible deterrent envisioned sometimes after the end of the Imposed War (1980-1988) has since seen all testings outsourced to its closest ally North Korea in order to better prevent international condemnations and sanctions.

So far, liquid propellant ICBM (Hwasongpho-15, Hwasongpho-17), solid propellant ICBM (Hwasongpho-18), unmanned underwater nuclear vehicle (Haeil series), cruise missile (Hwasal series), silo-based, underwater-based and train-launched (Hwasong-11 series), various caliber MLRS have been completed with success.

Some shorter range SLBMs (Pukguksong-1, Pukguksong-3) have been tested while those of intercontinental range (Pukguksong-4, Pukguksong-5, Pukguksong-6) are still awaiting trial.

Starting from scratch, the Iranian strategic nuclear ballistic missile submarine program would be completed in 3 incremental steps.
With the current 590-tons Fateh-class SSK being the heaviest vessel of the IRIN, the next step was to develop a submarine with a single VLS tube.
This first submarine named August 24th Hero (8.24 YONGUNG 영웅함), a 2000 tons SSBA, was used to test the Pukguksong-1 SLBM in 2015 in North Korea.

The next step was to convert an old Type-033 SSK into a 3000 ton SSB, with multiple VLS tubes.

Followed by a first SSN, and finally a 10'000 tons SSBN armed with 14 SLBMs.


North Korea's New Submarines Roadmap

North Korea is currently building simultaneously two new classes of submarines: two conventional propulsion SSBs, and one to possibly two SSNs.


Recent Japanese 3D-printed scale models have disclosed 3 generations of North Korean submarines:

• The Romeo Class SS.

• The 'Narval' Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB is the first test bed for multiple ballistic missile launch tubes (up to 6 Pukguksong-3 SLBMs).

• The future SSBN. The third class to be built will be the merger of two previous classes: the 10 meters diameter 'Stingray' Class SSN and the 'Narval Class SSB, as the final 'Orca' class SSBN (a name I chosed for more clarity). It will carry up to 16 Pukguksong-4 SLBMs of ~2.3 m diameter and ~12 m long, with a striking range of some 10'000 km. This project was started in 2012. Ensuring stealthiness will be critical.

▲ 21 June 2020 Update: Scale models disclosing 3 generations of North Korean submarines: the future SSBN, the 'Narval' Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB, and the Romeo Class SS. June 2020.[web.archive.org]
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North Korea's First SSB

The first plan for a North Korean SSB with multiple ballistic missile launch tubes was started in 1995.

▲ Scene from a video where General Kim Jong Il is inspecting a special North Korean submarine model with a two-story structure.It is a submarine capable of carrying 10 or more submarine-launched ballistic missiles and it is said that such submarines have already been deployed. With this two-story structure, the length of the submarine can be increased to accommodate even more missiles. In addition, by increasing the diameter of the missile, it is possible to increase its range.[web.archive.org]
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▲ This photo was taken on April 25, 1995, when General Kim Jong Il received the report of Kim Kwang Jin, the first deputy head of the People's Armed Forces, in front of the new submarine model. In April 1995, surprisingly, North Korea was also pursuing the construction of a nuclear-attack submarine using its own technology.[web.archive.org]
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The "Narval" Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB (a name I chosed for more clarity) is the first test bed for multiple ballistic missile launch tubes (up to 6 Pukguksong-1 SLBMs).
These 3,000-ton-class subs are currently under construction at the shipyards in Sinpo and Chongjin. They are about 76 meters long, and the hull are smaller than 10 meters in diameter. No anechoic tiles are to be applied.

▲ A 5th November 2017 satellite image showing a 7.1 meters diameter ring at North Korean Sinpo shipyard.[web.archive.org]
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▲ Image from KCTV video 2019.[web.archive.org]
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North Korean submarines 2019

The name of this new North Korean SSB is unknown, I called it for more clarity Narval Class SSB (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE).

▲ North Korean submarines 2019. Artistic illustration. [web.archive.org]
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▲ The DPRK's "Narval" Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB should have enough room to carry up to 6 Pukguksong-1 SLBMs. July 2019 [web.archive.org]
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Based on new recent artistic illustrations circulated on the internet, the following update was made.

The "Narval" Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB is the first test bed for multiple ballistic missile launch tubes. Up to 6 Pukguksong-3 SLBMs of ~1.4 m diameter, ~8 m long and ~2'500-3'600 km range, with launch tubes extending in the sail.
These 3,000-ton-class subs are currently under construction at the shipyards in Sinpo and Chongjin. They are about 76 meters long, and the hull are smaller than 10 meters in diameter. No anechoic tiles are to be applied.

▲ The "Narval" Class (일각고래: ILGAKKOLAE) SSB is the first test bed for multiple ballistic missile launch tubes (up to 6 Pukguksong-3 SLBMs). June 2020.[web.archive.org]
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▲ New North Korean SSB carrying Pukguksong-3 SLBMs. 2020.[web.archive.org]
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According to the following source, we should see the first sea trial by 9th September 2019. And probably delayed from the initial 2018 anniversary date as it was a crucial peace negociation year.

IHS Jane's Defence Weekly

30 August 2016

the construction of a new class of submarine ... to be completed by 9 September 2018 to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the nation, would be capable of firing two or three ballistic missiles, said the paper.

North Korea Building New Ballistic Missile Submarine

April 05, 2019 13:42

North Korea is building a new 3,000-ton submarine capable of launching ballistic missiles, a senior military spokesman here said Thursday.

"A large quantity of components presumably needed to build a 3,000-ton sub, which North Korea has been developing, have turned up recently at a shipyard in Sinpo, South Hamgyong Province," the spokesman said. "We've also spotted a floating dock deployed off Sinpo, apparently for a missile test."

Google Earth satellite imagery from March 2 shows piles of cylindrical components and materials presumed to be submarine bulkheads at the shipyard. None of them can be seen in satellite imagery from August last year.

Pictures also show that the facilities are well-maintained there and the floating dock, which was previously moored at the pier, is now floating offshore. "This suggests that North Korea has kept building a new sub and testing a submarine-launched ballistic missile," he said.

Construction seems to have been going on even as North Korea was in denuclearization talks with the U.S.

The North Korea's existing 2,000-ton sub is capable of carrying only one ballistic missile, but the new sub could deploy three or four. Russian models can carry up to 12. That would drastically increase the North Korea's strategic strike capability, and any launch would be hard to detect.

The new sub could travel into the Pacific and strike U.S. bases in Guam or Hawaii armed with the latest Pukguksong-3 SLBMs with a range of more than 2,000 km. "In theory, the new sub could travel across the Pacific and turn up in waters off the U.S. west coast," he added.

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North Korea's AIP system enables submarine to remain submerged for up to four weeks

North Korea pitched state-of-the-art submarine system to Taiwan military: report

2019/04/05 17:56

The AIP system is believed to enable the submarine to remain submerged for up to four weeks

As Taiwan's first indigenous submarine project is underway, media reported the North Korean government years ago reached out to Taiwan's military in an attempt to sell its advanced marine propulsion technology - Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) - for the project.

People familiar with the matter told UPmedia that a number of submarine builders and software providers from the United States, Europe among 16 other countries showed their interest in participating in the country's indigenous submarine project. To the military department's surprise, the North Korean military was among the bidders, reportedly pitching their products through a Taiwanese trading company.

The name of the trading company was not disclosed in the news story.

The report indicated that the company was pitching on behalf of the isolated nation, which has been enduring severe financial stress under the sanctions imposed by international bodies and a number of countries. The products on the list included North Korea's miniature Yono-class submarine, Yugo-class submarine, Sang-O-class submarine, as well as the North Korean self-made AIP system.

The system is believed to enable the submarine to remain submerged for up to four weeks to better extend its underwater endurance, compared to an underwater endurance of only a few days in traditional diesel-electric submarines.

A submarine expert working for Taiwan's military reportedly made a fact-checking trip years ago to the China-DPRK border city of Dandong to meet the North Korean military officials, from whom the expert verified the authenticity of the bid and its capability to carry out the task. However, Taiwan's military eventually didn't consider the technologies out of concern that it would violate UN sanctions against North Korea.

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Australian man accused of trying to sell North Korean missiles overseas refused bail

Fri 18 Oct 2019 09.12 BST

Choi Han Chan, 60, is the first person ever charged under Australia’s Weapons of Mass Destruction (Prevention of Proliferation) Act.

He has been charged with offences under the Charter of the United Nations Act and the Autonomous Sanctions Act, as well as the Weapons of Mass Destruction Act. The maximum penalty for these offences is 10 years’ imprisonment.


Choi described himself as North Korea’s “international commerce” liaison, working on behalf of the highest echelons of the DPRK government.

“I am a recognised strategist that has favour with Kim Jong Un,” he wrote.

The police allegations state that in late 2017 Choi brokered the sale of missiles and missile technology with a Taiwanese contact. They also state that he negotiated to send experts to the contact to help operate the technology. But the alleged deal was disrupted by his arrest.

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10:06PM December 17, 2017

The AFP allege the man was generating income for Pyongyang by brokering the sale of computer software for the guidance of ballistic missiles to other “international entities”.

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North Korea's First SSN

Iran is known to have started the development of miniaturized nuclear reactors. It should provide the electric power for its 10,000-ton-class strategic submarines (SSBN) program disclosed in 2012. |1|[web.archive.org] |2|[archive.ph]

North Korea is known to have started the development of several type of miniaturized nuclear reactors. One of them should provide the electric power for its 10,000-ton-class strategic submarines (SSBN) program disclosed in 2014. |1|[web.archive.org] |2|[archive.ph]

Iran Plans to Build Nuclear-Fueled Submarines

June 12, 2012

TEHRAN (FNA)- A senior Iranian Navy commander stressed Iran's high capabilities in designing and manufacturing different types of submarines, and announced the country's move towards manufacturing nuclear-powered submarines.

Speaking to FNA on Tuesday, Lieutenant Commander of the Navy for Technical Affairs Rear Admiral Abbas Zamini pointed to the navy's plan to manufacture super heavy nuclear-powered submarines, and stated, "Right now, we are at the initial phases of manufacturing atomic submarines."

He noted Iran's astonishing progress in developing and acquiring civilian nuclear technology for various power-generation, agricultural and medical purposes, and said such advancements allow Iran to think of manufacturing nuclear-fueled submarines.

He further reminded that using nuclear power to fuel submarines is among the civilian uses of the nuclear technology and all countries are, thus, entitled to the right to make such a use.

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Rouhani Orders Production of Highly Enriched Nuclear Fuel in Response to US Violation of Vienna Deal

Tue Dec 13, 2016 3:25

TEHRAN (FNA)- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday ordered the country's nuclear agency to start plans to produce nuclear fuel and propulsion systems for ships and submarines in response to the violation of the Vienna deal by Washington.

"Considering that the US administration has ignored and delayed compliance with its undertakings under the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), and given the recent extension of the Iran Sanctions Act (ISA) that had already been declared as a violation of the nuclear deal by the Islamic Republic of Iran..., the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran is ordered to develop the country's peaceful nuclear program within the framework of the Islamic Republic of Iran's international undertakings as defined in the following missions," President Rouhani said in a letter to AEOI Chief Ali Akbar Salehi on Tuesday.

First, President Rouhani said, the AEOI is required "to plan for designing and building propulsion systems to be used in marine transportation in cooperation with scientific and research centers".

He also asked the Iranian nuclear agency to conduct studies to design "production of fuel for nuclear propulsion systems".

Rouhani required Zarif to inform him of his actions and their results in one month, while he asked Salehi to report back to him in maximum 3 months.

Nuclear propulsion uses a nuclear power reactor to generate electricity on a vessel. Such systems are best known for their use on strategic nuclear submarines, which allow them to stay submerged for weeks avoiding detection. Nuclear propulsion is also used on some big surface ships like aircraft carriers or icebreakers.

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Construction of Besat heavy submarine to start soon

Nov 27, 2021, 12:03 PM

Regarding the capability of Iran Navy in producing advanced maritime equipment, Rear Admiral Irani stated, “We will produce all kinds of maritime equipment and construction operation of Besat heavy submarine will start soon."

MA/IRN84556400
News Code 181124


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29 February 2014

The Besat submarine with a weight of more than 1300 tons will fill the gap between Iranian semi-heavy submarines (Fateh class) and heavy submarines of 2300 tons (Tariq class).

mshrgh.ir/390640

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The nuclear submarine is unofficially called Bandar Abbas.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lg017ADMm_4
▲ Iran's first nuclear submarine. Jun 28, 2023[web.archive.org]
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▲ A 24th September 2016 satellite image showing a 10 meters diameter ring at North Korean Sinpo shipyard.[web.archive.org]
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A 10 meters diameter ring spotted on 24th September 2016 satellite imagery is related to the "Stingray" Class SSNs (a name I chosed for more clarity). Anechoic tiles should be expected. An improved classified screw is designed for lowering the cavitation.
The two SSN are 10,000-ton-class submarines built in the shipyard in Sinpo, South Hamkyong Province, and the first test beds for nuclear powered submarines. |1|[web.archive.org] |2|[archive.ph]

North Korea's First SSBN

The third class to be built will be the merger of these two classes, as the final "Orca" class SSBN (a name I chosed for more clarity). It will carry 14 Pukguksong-3 SLBMs with striking range above 4000 km. This project was started in 2012. Ensuring stealthiness will be critical.

▲ Based on this part of the revolutionary leader's statements, the KHAMENEI.IR information base publishes the plaque "If They Hit One They will Eat Ten.". 1397/03/20; 10 June 2018[web.archive.org]
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▲ Undated image of an Iranian "Orca" class SSBN, with 14 SLBM.[web.archive.org]
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First official guidance at the Pongdae Submarine Factory (봉대잠수함공장) reported in the North Korean media.

Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un Inspects Newly Built Submarine

Pyongyang, July 23 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un, chairman of the Workers' Party of Korea, chairman of the State Affairs Commission of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea and supreme commander of the armed forces of the DPRK, inspected a newly built submarine.

The submarine built under the meticulous guidance and special attention of Supreme Leader of the Party, state and armed forces Kim Jong Un will perform its duty in the operational waters of the East Sea of Korea and its operational deployment is near at hand.

Making a round of the submarine, the Supreme Leader learned in detail about its operational and tactical data and combat weapon systems.

He expressed great satisfaction over the fact that the submarine was designed and built to be capable of fully implementing the military strategic intention of the Party under various circumstances.

Saying that the operational capacity of a submarine is an important component in national defence of our country bounded on its east and west by sea, he stressed the need to steadily and reliably increase the national defence capability by directing big efforts to the development of the naval weapons and equipment such as submarine.

Explaining the Party's strategic plan for the use of submarine and underwater operation, he elaborated on the immediate duty and strategic tasks facing the field of national defence science and submarine industry to carry out the plan.

He said with pride that the successful building of the Korean-style powerful submarine is the fruition of the noble patriotism and loyalty of officials, scientists, technicians and workers in the field of national defence science and munitions factories who have worked hard to boost national defence capability, true to the Party's policy on attaching importance to defence science and technology, and another great demonstration of the might of our defence industry making a leap forward.

He was accompanied by Jo Yong Won, Hong Yong Chil, Yu Jin, Kim Jong Sik, Ri Jong Sik, Choe Myong Chol, Jang Chang Ha and other senior officials of the Party Central Committee and the field of national defence science. -0-

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▲ Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un Inspects Newly Built Submarine. Starboard beam section. July 2019.[web.archive.org]
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▲ Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un Inspects Newly Built Submarine. Starboard quarter section. July 2019.[web.archive.org]
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▲ Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un Inspects Newly Built Submarine. Starboard bow section. July 2019.[web.archive.org]
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Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkFig69qytM
▲ [혁명활동소식] 경애하는 최고령도자 김정은동지께서 새로 건조한 잠수함을 돌아보시였다​ [2019-07-23] [web.archive.org]
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New North Korean Ballistic Submarine Soon To Be Deployed

Friday, Sept. 20, 3:14

Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to deploy a ballistic missile-capable submarine.

Satellite operator Planet Labs have told NHK that they have analyzed images of a shipyard in the eastern port city of Sinpo.

On September 3 at least 13 pillar-like objects could be seen along a quay, with some vehicles moving around.

Images taken on September 12 show the construction of a large structure straddling the quay and the water.

The most recent images from Thursday, show the structure covering almost the entire quay.

The researchers say the structure is now about 100 meters long, which is much longer than what is used to build North Korea's conventional submarines.

They say Pyongyang may be preparing to launch a new submarine capable of carrying ballistic missiles.

The structure could be used for the maintenance and development of submarines, and drive the country's submarine-launched ballistic missile program.

▲ Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to deploy a ballistic missile-capable submarine.[archive.fo]
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Great Event Heralding Arrival of New Era, Turning Point in Bolstering up Juche-based Naval Force Ceremony of Launching Newly-built Submarine Held with Splendor in Presence of Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un
Ceremony of Launching Newly-built Submarine Held with Splendor in Presence of Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un

Pyongyang, September 8 (KCNA) -- A new powerful entity has emerged to demonstrate the rapid development of the Juche-based naval force all over the world in the glorious journey of ushering in a new era of a great prosperous and powerful country with the world-renowned tremendous national defence capabilities, unprecedented in the nation-building history of the DPRK, under the outstanding leadership of the ever-victorious Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

The heroic munitions industrial workers, scientists and technicians, boundlessly loyal to the revolutionary cause of the WPK, built a Korean-style tactical nuclear attack submarine and presented it as a gift to the motherland celebrating its 75th founding anniversary.

The submarine-launching ceremony heralded the beginning of a new chapter for bolstering up the naval force of the DPRK and made clearer the steadfast will of the WPK and the government of the DPRK to further strengthen the state nuclear deterrence both in quality and quantity and by leaps and bounds for regional and global peace and security.

The ceremony was splendidly held on Sept. 6 in the presence of Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, with attendance of leading officials of the Party, government and military, including Marshal Ri Pyong Chol, Marshal Pak Jong Chon, Premier of the Cabinet Kim Tok Hun and Admiral Kim Myong Sik, amid the great joy and excitement of commanding officers and seamen of the East Sea Fleet of the Navy and all the workers, scientists and technicians of the Pongdae Dockyard.

The venue of the ceremony was full of deep gratitude and reverence for the WPK, the great motherly Party, which has realized the long-cherished desire of the nation by leading the great development of the self-reliant defence industry, the revolutionary industry, to further strengthen the nuclear force representing the national prestige and honor and the absolute might of the Republic and consolidate the irreversible status of the country.

When the respected Comrade Kim Jong Un arrived at the submarine-launching venue, all the participants broke into enthusiastic cheers as a token of their admiration for the iron-willed brilliant commander and outstanding leader of the people who is paving a broad avenue toward great victory and prosperity with his world-famous matchless pluck and courage, ardent love and trust in the people, and tireless dedication to the building of a prosperous country with powerful army.

Amid the solemn playing of the national anthem of the DPRK, the guards of honor of the Navy of the Korean People's Army (KPA) slowly hoisted the national flag associated with the noble soul of the service personnel of the Navy who have fought to defend the vast sea of the country for more than 70 years, and symbolic of the eternal dignity and invincibility of the DPRK.

Then, Marshal Ri Pyong Chol conveyed the order of the Central Military Commission of the WPK on the transfer of the tactical nuclear attack submarine to the Navy of the KPA.

According to the order of the Central Military Commission of the WPK, the tactical nuclear attack submarine No. 841, the first of its kind, was transferred to the relevant submarine squadron under the East Sea Fleet of the KPA Navy and named the "Hero Kim Kun Ok".

Kim Jong Un conferred the transfer certificate on the commander of the submarine squadron under the East Sea Fleet of the Navy.

He made a meaningful speech congratulating the launching ceremony.

Saying that the submarine No. 841 " Hero Kim Kun Ok" to be launched today will perform its combat mission as one of core underwater offensive means of the naval force of the DPRK, he highly praised it as the first entity, produced by the noble ideal and peerless creation struggle of the WPK and its revolutionary industrial workers, in the great cause of building an advanced maritime power.

He noted that the Party Central Committee decided to make greater leaps forward in the shipbuilding industry of the country in order to substantially guarantee a new heyday of bolstering up the naval force. There is no room to step back in the drive for the expansion of the naval vessel-building industry as it is the top priority task to be fulfilled without fail, he said, clarifying the strategic and tactical plan to continuously enhance the modernity of underwater and surface forces and push forward with the nuclear weaponization of the Navy in the future, too.

When Kim Jong Un finished his congratulatory speech, all the participants broke into cheers of "Hurrah!" to express their ardent loyalty.

The scientists, technicians and workers of the Pongdae Submarine Factory extended deep thanks to Kim Jong Un who is ushering in a heyday of bolstering up the naval force, clearly indicating the orientation of the development of the Korean-style submarine industry and the way for developing new-type submarine.

Kim Jong Un had a photo session with senior officials of the Party and the government, leading commanding officers of the Navy and senior officials of the submarine factory in commemoration of the launch.

Marshal Ri Pyong Chol ordered the launching of the submarine after being informed by the manager of the factory that it was ready to be launched.

When the signal was given, the newly built submarine was launched amid the shower of confetti and release of balloons, reflecting the excitement and joy of all the participants witnessing the historical moment of epochal significance in bolstering up the naval force.

Kim Jong Un repeatedly praised the workers in the munitions industry, saying that thanks to the inexhaustible strength and enthusiasm resulting from the loyalty and patriotism displayed by them upholding the revolutionary defence-building policy with pure conscience, sense of obligation and devoted implementation, it was possible to demonstrate the might of the country once again ahead of the 75th founding anniversary of the Republic. He expressed belief that the officials and workers of the factory would continue to add glory to their great honor as the genuine patriots contributing to the development of the naval vessel-building industry in the new century and the front-line fighters defending the arsenal for the defence of the territorial waters.

On September 7, he inspected the tactical nuclear submarine "Hero Kim Kun Ok" preparing for a shakedown cruise.

A ceremony was hosted by the East Sea Fleet of the KPA Navy, to which the tactical nuclear attack submarine was assigned, to greet the Supreme Commander of the DPRK armed forces at the dock.

Kim Jong Un reviewed the honor colours of the East Sea Fleet of the KPA Navy and the guards of honor.

He was greeted by Admiral Kim Myong Sik, commander of the KPA Navy, Vice-Admiral Kim Chang Guk, political commissar of the KPA Navy, commanding officers of the East and West Sea Fleets of the KPA Navy and military and political officers of submarine squadrons.

He entered the tactical nuclear attack submarine to acquaint himself with its weapon system and underwater operation capability.

Saying that to arm the navy with nuclear weapons arises as an urgent task of the times and a crucial requirement for building the revolutionary armed forces, the fulfillment of which brooks no further delay, he stressed the need to enable the Navy to successfully carry out its strategic duty by hastening the transfer of underwater and surface vessels equipped with tactical nuclear weapons to the Navy.

He expressed expectation and belief that the officers and sailors of the submarine would become the model of the navy and the example to the whole army not only in the politico-ideological, spiritual and moral readiness but also in rounding off the preparations for a revolutionary war and continue to create new myth of the heroic navy in the van by firmly carrying forward the great sailor spirit of the preceding generations as befitting the ones of the submarine named after Hero Kim Kun Ok, the hero commanding officer of the first generation of the naval force of the Republic.

He had a photo taken with all the sailors of the submarine with the submarine "Hero Kim Kun Ok" in the background.

All the commanding officers and sailors of the submarine "Hero Kim Kun Ok" made a firm pledge to demonstrate their bravery as death-defying seamen and strong fist of the navy, regarding as lifeblood of their destiny the boundless love and trust by the great brilliant commander who provided them with an invincible treasured sword capable of defeating any formidable enemy, prayed for their safe navigation and feats and indicated the ever-victorious route aboard the submarine.

The ceremony of launching a tactical nuclear attack submarine, held just before the 75th founding anniversary of the DPRK, will be etched in the history of the country as a historic event worthy of special note in the history of bolstering up the Juche-based naval force and the history of building the state nuclear force in the great era of Kim Jong Un, and as a significant occasion that solemnly declared the start of the advance toward the attainment of the grandiose goal for turning the country into an advanced maritime power. -0-
www.kcna.kp (Juche112.9.8.)

▲ The tactical nuclear attack submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok. 2023[web.archive.org]
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▲ The tactical nuclear attack submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok. 2023[web.archive.org]
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▲ Tactical nuclear attack submarine Hero Kim Kun Ok spotted at pier in Pongdae Submarine Factory (Sinpo) in satellite photo from 6th September 2023. Sep 7, 2023 [web.archive.org]
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaWhv3H9OJ4
▲ Youtube video (35m50s). 주체적해군무력강화의 새시대,전환기의 도래를 알리는 일대 사변 경애하는 김정은동지를 모시고 새로 건조한 잠수함 진수식 성대히 진행. Sep 8, 2023[web.archive.org]
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2023/09/08

Looking at the photos released by North Korea, it can be seen that the vertical missile launch tube (VLS) consists of four large and six small tubes, which can be used to launch at least two types of missiles.

Chairman Kim Jong Un introduced that North Korea's submarine policy in the past was to build many small and fast submarines to defend its territorial waters, and said that the role of the navy has also changed with the times, adding, "Today's launch ceremony is no less than our construction of a new nuclear-powered submarine." “It will be a burden to our opponents,” he predicted.

Here he emphasized the need to decisively solve the ship engine problem by creating a modern engine industry.

The rear of the submarine was covered, which appears to be an intention to not reveal the shape of the screw. The screw shape is also the most important confidential information in ship construction. The shape of the screw allows the other side to detect the submarine using sound waves.

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An impressive 10 missiles loadout, probably 4 x Pukguksong-1/3 SLBM and 6 x Hwasong-11S aeroballistics missiles or 6 x Hwasal-2 SLCM.

▲ Highres image of 10 SLBM missile hatches. Sep 8, 2023[web.archive.org]
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▲ The DPRK's new Romeo-mod SSB. What we've seen and probable mast arrangement (based on Type 033). Sep 8, 2023[web.archive.org]
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North Korea's Hero Kim Kun Ok SSB upper structure was inspired by the Chinese Type 035's sail, but did not redesign the tail like the Type 035. Thanks to the streamlined tail drag is reduced and the sub has higher submerged speed than Type-033/Romeo.

▲ North Korea's Hero Kim Kun Ok SSB upper structure was inspired by the Chinese Type 035's sail.[web.archive.org]
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One aspect that seems quite modern is the bow. Unlike the Type 033/Romeo bow it's dome shaped and likely to accommodate a more modern sonar array.

▲ Artistic depiction of North Korea's Hero Kim Kun Ok SSB launching SLBM strike. 2023.[web.archive.org]
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Photogrammetric measurements

▲ If the diameter of the submarine's hull remains unchanged (which is highly likely), the increase in length of the new submarine is staggering. The red line represents the Type 633 submarine. · Sep 8, 2023[web.archive.org]
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▲ Comparative side view of the new submarine and the original Type 633 submarine. · Sep 8, 2023[web.archive.org]
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China Navy Type 033 Romeo class Attack Submarine SSK
Displacement: 1475 tons (surfaced) / 1830 tons (submerged) ; Length: 76.6 meters (703 pixels); Beam: 6.7 m

DPRK Navy submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok SSB
Displacement: 3,000 tons ; Length: ~96.2 meters (883 pixels); Beam: 6.7 m

▲ Meanwhile satellite image taken 6th April 2023 allowing better measurements with Google Map indicate a length closer to 80 m rather than 96 m.[web.archive.org]
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▲ North Korean submarines 2023. Estimated strength. Better measurements with Google Map indicate a length closer to 80 m.[web.archive.org]
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2023/09/08

In his congratulatory speech at the launch ceremony, Chairman Kim Jong Un said, “Apart from the plan to build nuclear submarines, we plan to convert all existing medium-sized submarines into attack submarines equipped with tactical nuclear weapons that can play an important role in modern warfare.” The plan was introduced as a ‘low-cost, high-tech strategy’ as part of the route to strengthen naval forces announced by our party’s 8th Congress.”

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This means that North Korea could convert up to ~20 Type-033/Romeo-class submarines in its possession into this new type of ballistic missile submarines.

Each armed with 10 warheads, totalling 200 SLBM/SLCM tactical nuclear weapons targeting South Korea and Japan. By taking into account the other basing modes, such as silos, underwater, TEL, MLRS, train-launched, corvette and fregate launched, this makes also the DPRK the world 5th nuclear military power by number of nukes by 2027, right behind the U.S., Russia, China and France, from its current 9th position.

North Korea could have up to 242 nuclear weapons by 2027: report

April 13, 2021

SEOUL, April 13 (Yonhap) -- North Korea could have up to 242 nuclear weapons and dozens of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) by 2027, a research report said Tuesday, calling for South Korea and the United States to weigh "all options" to counter the evolving threats.

The Asan Institute for Policy Studies and the Rand Corp. made the estimate in a joint report, stressing "serious" considerations should be given to deploying tactical nuclear arms in the South and other measures to deter the North's possible attempt at nuclear warfare.

The report came amid signs of worrisome activity at the North's east coast shipyard seen as a site for submarine launched ballistic missile tests and after a U.N. panel report that Pyongyang continues to develop its nuclear and missile programs.

"It is estimated that the total number of North Korea's nuclear weapons by 2027 would be between 151 and 242, in addition to tens of mobile intercontinental ballistic missiles," the report, titled "Countering the Risks of North Korean Nuclear Weapons," said.

The report based its estimate on the amount of fissile material, such as plutonium and highly enriched uranium, which Pyongyang is believed to have produced. It cited such data as the U.S. intelligence community's estimate and other known analysis.

"We estimate North Korea's number of nuclear weapons from 2017 through 2027, with the starting value of 30 to 60 nuclear weapons in 2017, with one to two plutonium weapons added by 2020, and with the numbers growing by either 12 weapons per year or 18 weapons per year," the report said.

The report, however, noted the need for caution in drawing conclusions on the North's inventory, citing "vast uncertainties," such as the fact that its estimate is not based on the actual production of nuclear arms, and the uncertain number of operational centrifuges used to produce highly enriched uranium.

The report warned that with further advances in its nuclear capability, the North will be able to employ the nuclear threats and attacks in "much more coercive and diverse ways," such as preemptive nuclear strikes.

To fend off the North's nuclear warfare attempts, the report called for Seoul and Washington to consider options such as dedicating U.S. strategic nuclear weapons to targeting the North and deploying U.S. intermediate ballistic missiles with nuclear weapons in or near South Korea and stationing tactical nuclear weapons here.

The report also stressed the need for the allies to consider "putting all options" on the table to maximize the effectiveness of their efforts against the North's nuclear weapons use.

"The United States could also threaten North Korea that if it crosses an ICBM or nuclear weapon inventory threshold, or both, the United States will station in the ROK eight to ten tactical nuclear weapons capable of destroying deep underground facilities," it added. ROK is South Korea's official name, the Republic of Korea.

In addition, the report said that the transfer of wartime operational control (OPCON) from Washington to Seoul should be delayed until the provision of nuclear weapons support to the South by the U.S. becomes certain.

"Unlike in a conventional conflict, in a nuclear conflict, the ROK is not ready to take the principal role in confronting North Korea, especially in the initial stage of a contingency," the report said.

"This is a key weakness that could lead the North Koreans to interpret the OPCON transition as a sign of faltering U.S. commitment to the defense of the ROK," it added.

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North Korea has adopted a unique policy of mounting nuclear weapons on conventional submarines along with building nuclear submarines, a method unprecedented in the world.

This strategy is a smart stop-gap making good use of the otherwise irrelevant Romeo-class submarines, until nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines can be produced in large number by the end of the decade.


It won't be long before we see the first test launch of both Pukguksong-3 SLBM and Hwasal-2 SLCM.

Sea trials for a new sub could take long, but as it is a modified Type 033, they will shorten the period, maybe under a year, then we'll see if they will convert more Type 033 subs.

We wait for Iran, who outsourced the development of this strategic program in North Korea, to disclose its own modded ballistic submarine.

Having no Type 033 class submarine, it is expected that such a modification could only be done on the 3 Iranian Kilo class submarines.

Meanwhile time is running out for all the minor powers.

After 2027, when the U.S. Starlink orbital array of 42'000 satellites is completed, no ICBM and cruise missile will be able to survive beyond a few meters!