North Korea advances AI weapons programme with new precision-guided torpedo

This picture taken on October 11, 2026 and released by North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on October 13, 2026 shows North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, his wife Ri Sol Ju, and his daughter Kim Ju Ae touring the Second Economic Committee National Defense Revolution Museum in Pyongyang. — AFP pic

First Published: Saturday, 17 Oct 2026 8:58 AM MYT

SEOUL, Oct 17 — North Korea has tested a “new-type” precision-guided torpedo system that uses artificial intelligence for target detection and guidance, state news agency KCNA reported this morning. 

The underwater test-fire of the “super-speed” Zam-2.0 system took place on Thursday “to confirm the successful technical updating” of the weapon, the Korean Central News Agency said.

“AI technology was applied to the target detection and the guidance function of the new-type super-speed precisely guided torpedo,” KCNA said.

Earlier this month, North Korea announced that it had proceeded with the AI-assisted launch of an intermediate-range hypersonic missile.

In September, the country’s leader Kim Jong Un emphasised the need to raise “the level of artificial intelligence” in the country’s weapons systems.

Analysts have said North Korea could be rapidly advancing its missile technology with Russian military support in exchange for sending troops to support its war against Ukraine. — AFP