North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inspected major weapons factories and called for stronger artillery and greater use of artificial intelligence in the country’s military systems.
According to North Korean state media, Kim visited several munitions facilities between September 16 and 18, reviewing weapons production and calling for expanded manufacturing capacity and modernized military technology.
Kim said North Korea’s artillery forces should have powerful and versatile capabilities for both deterrence and wartime operations. He also called for improvements in artillery armor and automation.
A key part of his instructions was to raise the use of artificial intelligence in both offensive and defensive weapons systems. He also called for further modernization of production processes at military factories.
Images released by North Korean state media showed Kim inspecting weapons including multiple rocket launchers and drones. Analysts said some of the facilities appeared to be involved in producing large-caliber rocket systems and unmanned weapons.
The latest inspection highlights Pyongyang’s continued focus on expanding and modernizing its military capabilities, including greater automation and the integration of AI into weapons systems.
The developments come amid continued tensions between North Korea, the United States and South Korea, with Pyongyang maintaining that its military buildup is necessary for national security.
Kim’s latest orders indicate that North Korea intends to keep expanding its weapons production while pursuing newer technologies for its military forces.
