Pyongyang: North Korea tested a new ballistic missile system and weapons package featuring a lightweight launcher and AI-guided missile launcher on Tuesday (May 26), with Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un personally overseeing the multi-weapons combination test.
According to Thai News Agency, the North Korean military tested new ballistic missiles and multiple rocket launchers equipped with AI-powered guidance systems to maximize accuracy in modern warfare. Of particular interest is the new Lightweight Multipurpose Missile Launching System, used alongside the firing of guided missiles and multiple rocket launchers. The South Korean military and analysts believe this is an attempt to test multiple weaponry simultaneously to enhance its ability to penetrate and evade air defense systems.
Furthermore, this marks one of the first times North Korea has claimed to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) in the targeting system of its tactical cruise missiles. Working in conjunction with high-precision automated navigation and terrain mapping, the missile has an effective range of 100 kilometers, covering Seoul and its surrounding areas. This new missile can also process real-time data to automatically locate, recognize, and lock onto targets before impact. Additionally, tests were conducted on a "special mission warhead" mounted on the tactical missile, as well as on a 240 mm guided rocket.
KCNA reported that Kim Jong-un expressed great satisfaction with the test results, stating that these weapons systems were a clear sign of upgrading and reforming the military to meet the conditions of modern warfare. These guided missiles and rockets are planned to be gradually deployed to long-range artillery divisions in areas close to the border with South Korea. Furthermore, these missiles play a significant role as high-precision conventional weapons. Some analysts believe that the information and capabilities gained from developing these guided missiles and tactical ballistic missiles may also be linked to equipment exports and field information exchange with Russia, allowing North Korea to use that data to further develop and stabilize its automated systems.
Earlier on Tuesday (May 26), the South Korean military confirmed the launch of several missiles that traveled approximately 80 kilometers in the West Sea. Experts from the Asan Institute for Policy Studies estimate that North Korea likely used an automated image recognition system combined with existing digital systems to increase the accuracy of the missiles.