Image Credentials: Image Title: War Deterrent: Kim Jong Un Orders Massive Expansion of North Korean Missile and Submarine Arsenal Source: (sora.openai) Date: December 2025. Attribution: This image was created using AI-generated imagery (sora.openai) and does not depict a real-world scene.
By Open Chronicle Staff with Agencies | December 26, 2025
PYONGYANG, North Korea — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued a directive for an aggressive expansion of the nation’s military capabilities, ordering a surge in the production of missiles and artillery shells. During a series of high-profile inspections of munitions plants and shipyards, Kim framed the escalation as a critical “war deterrent” necessitated by shifting regional alliances and South Korea’s procurement of advanced technology.
The Mandate for Mass Production
State media outlet KCNA reported on Friday that Kim Jong Un, accompanied by top officials, toured several munitions plants to set the agenda for what he described as a “busy year ahead.” The leader emphasized that the missile and shell production sector is now of “paramount importance” to national security.
To meet the growing demands of the North Korean armed forces, Kim ordered:
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Increased Output: A significant ramp-up in the daily production of missiles and artillery shells.
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New Infrastructure: The immediate construction of additional munitions factories to expand overall manufacturing capacity.
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Modernization: The unveiling of new production plans at the upcoming ruling Korean Workers’ Party congress early next year.
The 8,700-Tonne Nuclear Submarine
A centerpiece of the recent military showcase was Kim’s visit to a shipyard to inspect a massive 8,700-tonne nuclear-powered submarine. This marks the first clear look at the vessel since March, with current photos showing a burgundy-colored hull under construction.
Experts from the Korea Institute for National Unification suggest the submarine is equipped with a nuclear reactor and is nearing completion. The vessel is reported to be capable of launching surface-to-air missiles, providing North Korea with a formidable sea-based strike capability.
Rising Tensions with Seoul and Washington
Kim’s directive is a direct response to recent diplomatic developments between the United States and South Korea. At a November summit, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung secured a commitment from U.S. President Donald Trump to share sensitive technology for South Korea’s own nuclear-powered submarine program.
Kim Jong Un described this move as an existential threat that would “worsen the instability” of the region. In a show of force, Kim also recently oversaw the test launch of new-type high-altitude long-range anti-air missiles over the Sea of Japan.
The Moscow-Pyongyang Axis
Analysts believe the surge in production is not just for domestic use but is also tied to North Korea’s deepening military partnership with Russia. As the invasion of Ukraine nears its fourth year, North Korea has become a vital supplier for Moscow.
The Mutual Defense Exchange:
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From Pyongyang: Troops, artillery shells, missiles, and long-range rocket systems.
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From Moscow: Financial aid, food, energy supplies, and advanced military technology—including satellite and potentially submarine capabilities.
| Military Asset | Status/Development |
| 8,700-Tonne Submarine | Near completion; nuclear-powered |
| Missile Production | Ordered to “Step Up” with new factories |
| Anti-Air Missiles | Recent successful long-range test |
| Munitions Plants | Expansion authorized for 2026 |
A Regional Arms Race
The shift toward nuclear-powered naval assets and mass-produced precision missiles signals a new, more dangerous phase in the Korean Peninsula’s arms race. With Pyongyang looking to Russia for technical breakthroughs and Seoul turning to Washington for nuclear naval technology, the “war deterrent” cited by Kim Jong Un appears to be driving the region toward a state of permanent mobilization.