UPDATE: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has just unveiled significant advancements in drone technology, showcasing the country’s new Saetbyol-4 during a performance test on September 19, 2025. This development comes as North Korea intensifies its military modernization efforts, with state media emphasizing the importance of drones and artificial intelligence.
Reports from the Korean Central News Agency indicate that Kim expressed satisfaction with the performance of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which closely resemble U.S. models, particularly the RQ-4 Global Hawk. The implications of this technology are profound, as North Korea faces off against U.S. and South Korean forces across one of the world’s most fortified borders.
Kim’s push for indigenous drone capabilities signals a strategic shift in North Korea’s defense planning. The North’s advancements are alarming to its neighbors, with recent reports suggesting that North Korea aims to export its drone technology to adversaries like Iran.
“The utility range of unmanned equipment is being further expanded in modern warfare,” Kim stated, reinforcing the importance of drone technology in military operations.
During the test, which was organized by the Unmanned Aeronautical Technology Complex, Kim underscored the necessity of integrating advanced technology into the military infrastructure of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). His comments reflect a commitment to enhancing the combat capabilities of North Korean forces.
Analysts are closely monitoring these developments. Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that this display of drone technology could be a direct message to the U.S. and South Korea amid ongoing military exercises in the region. He stated, “North Korea could intend to show its capability to reconnoiter the enemies’ activity and attack major radar or air defense bases.”
The Saetbyol-4 drone is not the only model being developed; North Korea is also working on the Saetbyol-9, an attack drone that resembles the U.S. MQ-9 Reaper. These drones were first displayed publicly at a military parade in July 2023.
North Korean soldiers have gained practical experience with drone warfare, having assisted Russian forces in the Kursk region during their conflict with Ukraine. Reports indicated that North Korean troops initially faced challenges against Ukrainian drones, suffering significant losses.
As tensions escalate in the region, the international community remains vigilant. While there are no current indications of increased North Korean troop deployments to assist Russia in Ukraine, Kim’s recent statements suggest a readiness to act in support of allied interests.
With the spotlight on North Korea’s military capabilities, future developments in drone technology and potential arms exports will be critical to watch. This situation continues to unfold, and more updates are expected as North Korea solidifies its stance in global military dynamics.