North Korea Ramps Up Tactical Guided Weapon Production, Eyeing Future Artillery Replacement
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has recently conducted a significant inspection of a tactical guided weapon factory, issuing directives to dramatically expand its production capabilities. This move is widely interpreted as a strategic push to bolster the nation’s military technological prowess, with a particular focus on a weapon system believed to be Pyongyang’s indigenous version of the Israeli “Spike” missile. This advanced missile was reportedly first deployed in combat scenarios in Ukraine’s Kursk region earlier in 2024.
The Korean Central News Agency reported on the 4th that Chairman Kim’s visit to the crucial military facility aimed to meticulously assess the current production status of tactical guided weapons. The inspection also included an evaluation of multi-purpose precision-guided weaponry, highlighting the regime’s commitment to developing sophisticated offensive capabilities.
During his visit, Kim Jong-un emphasized the profound impact of the nation’s “excellent tactical guided weapon system.” He stated, “The potential military technological capabilities and effectiveness of our excellent tactical guided weapon system are so significant that they can even replace artillery systems in the future.” This bold declaration suggests a long-term strategic vision where these guided weapons could fundamentally alter frontline combat dynamics, potentially rendering traditional artillery obsolete. Kim further underscored the urgency of integration, announcing, “Starting from the first half of this year, important units will be systematically equipped with this weapon system.”
To meet the projected demands, Kim provided clear instructions for scaling up operations. “To meet the equipment demands of units envisioned by the Ministry of National Defense and the General Staff Department, there is a decisive need to expand the current production capacity by about 2.5 times,” he commanded. This significant increase in production capacity signals a substantial investment and a clear intent to arm key military units with these advanced weapons in the near future.
Visual evidence accompanying the reports, released by North Korean state media, depicts a production facility churning out a weapon that bears a striking resemblance to Israel’s precision-guided Spike missile. This weapon system is reportedly designated as “Bulsae-4” within North Korea’s arsenal. Its capabilities are impressive, boasting a range of 10 to 25 kilometers, which allows for precision strikes facilitated by electro-optical guidance equipment. It is primarily designed for anti-tank roles, offering a potent threat to armored vehicles.
Analysis from the Korea Defense and Security Forum suggests that the “Bulsae-4” system is not limited to man-portable configurations. The forum noted, “There are also armored vehicle-mounted versions, and images of it being mounted on the Choi Hyun-class have been disclosed.” This indicates a versatile platform that can be integrated into various military assets. Furthermore, the forum pointed to the influence of recent combat experience. “Performance improvements have been made through combat experience on the Ukrainian battlefield and Russian technical support, and additional exports to Russia and support are expected to follow.” This suggests a feedback loop where battlefield data and potential technological exchanges with Russia are contributing to the weapon’s evolution and potential for further international proliferation.
This recent inspection of the guided weapon factory is part of a broader pattern of Kim Jong-un’s intensified focus on military modernization. Since late last year, the North Korean leader has undertaken numerous on-site guidance tours of key defense sectors. These visits have included the construction site of a nuclear-powered submarine, reportedly capable of carrying nuclear weapons, and a facility dedicated to the production of super-large multiple rocket launchers. He has also personally observed critical test launches of advanced weaponry, such as a new high-altitude long-range air defense missile and participated in drills involving long-range strategic cruise missiles, demonstrating a comprehensive engagement with the development and deployment of his nation’s military assets.
Looking ahead, North Korea is poised to articulate a significant shift in its military doctrine. It is widely anticipated that at the upcoming 9th Workers’ Party Congress, scheduled to commence early this year, Pyongyang will formally present its North Korean-style nuclear-conventional integration (CNI) strategy. This strategy aims to intricately link nuclear and conventional weapons development and deployment, emphasizing a synergistic approach to national defense. The modernization of its forces, as evidenced by the focus on advanced guided weapons, is a critical component of this overarching strategy, signaling Pyongyang’s intent to present a formidable and technologically advanced military force on the global stage.
