North Korea tests AI-powered torpedo system

North Korea has tested a new artificial intelligence-powered torpedo system designed to improve underwater target detection and guidance, marking another step in its efforts to advance military technology.

The test took place on Thursday, according to North Korean state media. The weapon, identified as the Zam-2.0, is described as a high-speed, precision-guided torpedo equipped with AI technology.

The system uses artificial intelligence to detect targets and guide the weapon towards them. North Korean officials said the latest test aimed to verify technical improvements to the torpedo, including its propulsion system and overall performance.

The announcement comes as Pyongyang continues to expand its weapons programme. Earlier this month, North Korea reported testing an AI-assisted intermediate-range hypersonic missile. It also recently announced the launch of two types of cruise missiles from a submarine.

Military analysts believe North Korea is working to improve its ability to strike targets at sea and challenge the defence systems of the United States and its regional allies. Some experts have also suggested that Russian support could be helping Pyongyang advance its missile and weapons technology in exchange for North Korean military assistance in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Artificial intelligence could make torpedoes more effective by helping them distinguish genuine targets from decoys. South Korea and the United States use decoy systems to divert incoming torpedoes, but AI-assisted detection could potentially make such countermeasures less effective.

Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University, said North Korea was investing in technologies intended to challenge US strategic military capabilities, including submarine-based weapons.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has also stressed the importance of expanding the use of artificial intelligence in the country’s weapons systems. The latest test reflects Pyongyang’s broader push to integrate advanced technologies into its military capabilities.

Meanwhile, tensions between North and South Korea have continued to grow as both countries pursue hypersonic weapons. Such missiles travel at more than five times the speed of sound and can change direction during flight, making them difficult to detect and intercept.

South Korea recently tested its own hypersonic glide vehicle, describing it as a key strategic asset. North Korea questioned whether the test had achieved hypersonic flight, but Seoul rejected the claim.

Despite the latest announcement, questions remain about the operational effectiveness of North Korea’s new torpedo system. Experts say reducing underwater noise remains a major technical challenge because high-speed torpedoes can become easier to detect.

The weapons tests also come amid speculation about a possible meeting between US President Donald Trump and Kim during Trump’s planned Asian tour next month. The two leaders could have an opportunity to meet as regional leaders prepare for the November APEC summit in China.

North Korea’s latest military developments are likely to draw further attention from Washington and Seoul as regional powers monitor the country’s expanding missile and underwater warfare capabilities.