North Korean state media released photographs this week, showing leader Kim Jong Un inspecting what the regime describes as an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine. The images reveal a largely completed hull inside a shipyard facility, marking significant advancement since partial views shared in March.

Kim visited the construction site accompanied by officials and his daughter, often seen as a potential successor. He received briefings on the project’s status and emphasized its role in modernizing the navy.

During the inspection, Kim condemned South Korea’s efforts to develop nuclear-powered submarines, supported by the United States under President Trump. He called Seoul’s plans an offensive act that violates North Korea’s security and maritime sovereignty.

Kim argued these developments justify accelerating North Korea’s naval nuclear armament. He described completing the submarine as an epoch-making shift in bolstering the country’s nuclear deterrent against perceived threats.

The vessel appears designed to carry ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and torpedoes. North Korea has tested various submarine-launched systems in recent years, claiming nuclear delivery capabilities.

Experts note the hull’s completion suggests major internal components, possibly including the reactor, are installed. Sea trials could begin within months, though full operational status remains uncertain due to technological challenges.

This reveal intensifies regional tensions amid an emerging submarine arms race. South Korea pursues its own nuclear-powered vessels to counter growing threats, while American policies prioritize strong alliances and deterrence without endless commitments.

The 800-lb gorilla in the room is the potential for a future nuclear-armed North Korean submarine to get close to the United States. Unlike the ICBMs that North Korea claims to have, nuclear-launched nuclear missiles would be almost impossible to stop if they’re launched from near America’s west coast.