North Korea Tests AI-Powered Drones, Unveils Early-Warning Aircraft

SEOUL, South Korea — On March 27, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a test of advanced suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology, emphasizing that unmanned control and AI should become paramount in the nation’s arms development, according to state media.

During the inspection, Kim reviewed upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of identifying various tactical targets on land and at sea, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). He stated, “The field of unmanned equipment and artificial intelligence should be top-prioritized and developed in modernizing the armed forces.”

In a significant reveal, North Korea also introduced an airborne early-warning (AEW) aircraft, marking its first official acknowledgment of such capabilities. This development could enhance the country’s aging air defense systems. State media images depict Kim as he approaches the large aircraft, which features four engines and a radar dome.

Analysts using commercial satellite imagery previously indicated that North Korea was retrofitting Russian-made Il-76 cargo planes for the AEW role. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) reported in September that deploying an AEW aircraft would help address limitations posed by the peninsula’s hilly terrain, enhancing the ability to track low-flying threats, including aircraft and cruise missiles.

“The ability of an AEW aircraft to look down mitigates some of the challenges of the terrain and ground-clutter returns,” the IISS noted. However, they cautioned that one AEW plane would not be sufficient, suggesting that the North might have to cannibalize its cargo fleet to establish a more robust early-warning system.

South Korea’s military commented on the new aircraft’s operational capabilities, stating it appears “large and heavy and probably susceptible to interception.” Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Lee Sung-jun indicated that while the aircraft’s framework has been refurbished, “Russia may have had something to do with the internal system and parts.”

Amidst strengthening ties, Russia has reportedly provided North Korea with anti-air missiles and other defense equipment, with Pyongyang supporting Moscow’s military efforts in Ukraine, according to South Korea’s national security adviser Shin Won-sik.

In addition to the drones, Kim inspected new reconnaissance equipment designed for intelligence gathering, electronic jamming, and attack capabilities. Images showcased a fixed-wing UAV targeting a tank-shaped structure before detonating, illustrating North Korea’s advancements in drone warfare. One image captured Kim near an unmanned surveillance aircraft similar to the U.S. RQ-4 Global Hawk.

Reports suggest that North Korean troops deployed to Russia as part of the Ukraine conflict have gained valuable experience in drone operations, further enhancing their military capabilities.

Reporting by Jack Kim; Additional reporting by Josh Smith; Editing by Stephen Coates