SEOUL, South Korea (Yonhap News Agency) – North Korea has recently registered 13 new submarines with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a move that has sparked considerable concern and analysis among maritime and security experts.
According to the Yonhap News Agency, the new registrations include Shark II class submarines numbered 1 to 11, the Xinpud class August 24 Hero submarine, and the Xinpud C class Kim Jung-yu Hero submarine. All the registrations were made in the name of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Government.
The International Maritime Organization has assigned identification codes to each of the 13 submarines, with the Kim Jung-yu Hero submarine, built in September 2023, being assigned the code 4776425.
North Korea held a ceremony for the launching of the Kim Jung-yu Hero tactical nuclear attack submarine last September. South Korean military analysts had speculated that it was a modified version of the Romeo class submarine.
What is particularly noteworthy is that this is the first time North Korea has registered submarines with the International Maritime Organization, having previously only registered naval vessels. The move has prompted speculation that it could be related to joint military exercises with China or Russia.
The Kim Jung-yu Hero submarine is believed to be capable of conducting underwater nuclear attacks, as reported by the North Korean state-run news agency, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), in September 2023. It was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who has been increasingly involved in the nation’s military affairs.
The registration of the new submarines comes at a time when tensions in the region remain high. North Korea has been increasing its military capabilities, including its submarine fleet, in recent years.
The North’s submarine force has been the subject of particular interest due to its potential to launch surprise attacks and its role in the country’s nuclear and missile programs. The new registrations suggest that North Korea is continuing to expand its naval capabilities.
The move also raises questions about North Korea’s intentions and its relationship with other countries. Some experts believe that the registration could be a way for North Korea to signal its intent to engage in international maritime activities, while others see it as a potential precursor to more aggressive actions.
In the past, North Korea has used its naval forces to conduct operations in international waters, including the seizure of South Korean ships and the sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan in 2010, which killed 46 sailors.
The International Maritime Organization has a role in ensuring the safety and security of international navigation, and its registry of vessels can provide valuable information about the capabilities and intentions of navies around the world.
The registration of the 13 new submarines is likely to be closely monitored by the international community, especially by neighboring countries and those with a vested interest in regional stability.
In conclusion, the registration of 13 new submarines by North Korea with the International Maritime Organization is a significant development that has sparked considerable concern. The move has raised questions about North Korea’s intentions and its role in the international community, and it is likely to be closely monitored in the coming months and years.
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