North Korea has announced the successful test of another nuclear-capable underwater attack drone, "Haeil-2," as it continues to demonstrate its military capabilities in the face of ongoing tensions with the United States and South Korea.
According to North Korea's state media, the nuclear-capable unmanned underwater attack weapon, named "Haeil-2," was tested from April 4 to April 7, just over a week after the disclosure of a new underwater drone called "Haeil-1" or "tsunami."
The North's KCNA state news agency reported that during the underwater strategic weapon system test, the drone traveled 1,000 km (621 miles) for 71 hours and 6 minutes, successfully striking a simulated target. "The test perfectly proved the reliability of the underwater strategic weapon system and its fatal attack ability," KCNA stated.
While some analysts remain doubtful about the underwater vehicle's readiness for deployment, KCNA claims that the system will help deter military action against North Korea.
State media released photographs depicting a large, dark-colored torpedo-shaped object, as well as the object's underwater trajectory and the resulting explosion visible on the sea's surface.
North Korea has been consistently testing various weapons for months and has intensified its activities in recent weeks in response to joint U.S.-South Korean military exercises.
In the past few weeks, North Korea has unveiled new, smaller nuclear warheads and launched an intercontinental ballistic missile capable of reaching any location within the United States.
