North Korea Building Its Largest Warship Yet: Satellite Images Reveal Kim Jong Un's Naval Ambitions

April 15, 2025 Global Security Watch North Korea appears to be constructing the largest warship in its naval history, according to newly surfaced satellite imagery dated April 6, 2025. The massive vessel, reportedly under construction at Nampo Shipyard, located roughly 60 kilometers southwest of Pyongyang, could mark a significant shift in the nation’s maritime strategy under the leadership of Kim Jong Un.

140-Meter Warship May Feature Guided Missiles and Advanced Radar

Analysts believe the new vessel is a guided missile frigate (FFG), measuring approximately 140 meters in length—double the size of any warship North Korea has previously built. The warship may be equipped with vertical launch systems (VLS) capable of launching surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, along with advanced radar systems designed for improved detection and targeting.

Experts also suggest that the ship could dramatically upgrade North Korea’s ability to project naval power, particularly in the disputed waters near South Korea and Japan.

Strategic Implications: Russia-North Korea Ties Growing Post-Ukraine War

The ship’s development comes amid strengthening ties between Russia and North Korea, particularly following the Ukraine conflict. Some military analysts believe Russian support could be aiding North Korea’s missile and naval technologies. A former South Korean admiral even suggested Russia may be assisting with the ship’s missile systems.

However, U.S. naval experts caution that while building the vessel is achievable, operating it with advanced systems and sustainable logistics could pose significant challenges for North Korea, especially given its economic and technological limitations.

Kim Jong Un’s Naval Modernization: 400 Ships and 70 Submarines in Fleet

North Korea’s navy currently maintains a fleet of approximately 400 vessels and 70 submarines, most of which are outdated and limited in range and capabilities. However, Kim Jong Un has expressed a clear intent to modernize his navy, recently inspecting a new naval base and calling for expanded ports to accommodate larger warships.

State-run Korean Central Television (KCTV) has aired footage suggesting the new warship may feature modern weapons systems, including VLS cells capable of launching various missile types. Efforts are also reportedly underway to develop nuclear-powered submarines, though their operational status remains unconfirmed.

Conclusion: A Potential Shift in Regional Naval Dynamics

If successfully completed and operational, North Korea’s new warship could mark a strategic turning point for the nation’s navy. It would represent a significant leap in technological ambition and maritime capability, possibly altering the regional balance of power in the waters of East Asia.

Whether Pyongyang can overcome the economic and technological hurdles to field this next-generation frigate remains a key question—but the world is watching.