Russia Aiding And Abetting North Korea's Nuke Sub Dream

2025-09-19 06:10:25

(MENAFN- Asia Times) Russia's suspected transfer of nuclear submarine reactors to North Korea has jolted East Asia, tying Pyongyang's submarine ambitions to Moscow's war in Ukraine while raising new doubts about the US's deterrent staying power in the Pacific.

This month, multiple outlets citing South Korean intelligence reported that Russia may have covertly transferred two to three decommissioned nuclear submarine modules-including a reactor, turbine and cooling system-to North Korea in the first half of 2025, potentially giving Pyongyang access to propulsion technology it has long lacked.

Officials say the deal followed North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un's repeated requests for nuclear submarine know-how and advanced fighter jets in return for supplying Russia with munitions, personnel and even food and oil for its war in Ukraine.

In March, North Korean state media published photographs of Kim inspecting what it described as a“nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine.” However, details of its displacement and capabilities remain unclear.

Experts estimate the vessel could displace 5,000–7,000 tons and carry about 10 nuclear-capable missiles-posing a significant challenge for US and South Korean anti-submarine warfare in both the peninsula and the Taiwan Strait.

North Korea's submarine project is highly likely to have relied on Russian assistance, as the former has never been able to produce compact naval reactors. If confirmed, Russia's transfer would cross a red line by breaching the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). It would also likely trigger fresh sanctions against both countries, underscoring the deepening partnership sealed after Kim's 2023 summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

However, North Korea's nuclear missile submarine program has stirred skepticism, with questions about its plausibility and actual capabilities. While the vessel could provide second-strike capability, doubts persist-from flawed Romeo and Golf-class retrofits to noisy propulsion that leaves it exposed to anti-submarine warfare (ASW).

MENAFN19092025000159011032ID1110084056

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.