North Korea Registers 13 Submarines with IMO, Raising Concerns
Seoul, August 28, 2024 – North Korea hasrecently registered 13 new submarines with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), sparking concerns about the country’s growing naval capabilities and potential implications for regional security.
According to the Voice of America (VOA), the IMO’s Global Integrated Shipping Information System (GISIS) shows that the newly registered submarines include11 Shark-class submarines numbered 1 to 11, the Sinpo-class Hero 824 submarine, and the Sinpo-C class Hero Kim Jun Ok submarine. All 13 vesselsare registered under the Government of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
The IMO has assigned individual identification codes to each of the submarines. Notably, the Hero Kim Jun Ok submarine, built in September 2023, has been assigned the code 4776425. This submarine, which North Korea claims is a tactical nuclear attack submarine, was launched in September 2023 with much fanfare. South Korean military analysts believe it is a modified version of the Romeo-class submarine.
While North Koreahas previously registered warships with the IMO, this is the first time it has registered submarines. This move has raised eyebrows among analysts, who speculate that it could be a prelude to joint naval exercises with China or Russia.
This is a significant development, said a South Korean military official who spoke on condition of anonymity.North Korea has been increasingly assertive in its military activities, and this registration could be a way for them to legitimize their submarine fleet on the international stage.
The registration of these submarines comes at a time when tensions on the Korean peninsula are already high. North Korea has conducted a series of missile tests in recent months, including the launch of a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) in July. The country has also been vocal in its condemnation of joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States, which it views as a provocation.
Experts believe that North Korea’s registration of its submarines with the IMO could have severalimplications. First, it could signal a shift in North Korea’s strategy, as it seeks to project its naval power more assertively. Second, it could be a way for North Korea to gain access to international shipping lanes and potentially engage in illicit activities, such as smuggling. Third, it could be a way forNorth Korea to increase its leverage in negotiations with the international community.
North Korea is playing a dangerous game, said a senior analyst at the Korea Institute for National Unification. They are trying to create a new reality on the Korean peninsula, one where they are a major player with a powerful military. This isa serious threat to regional security, and it requires a strong response from the international community.
The registration of these submarines is likely to be met with concern by South Korea, Japan, and the United States, all of whom have a vested interest in maintaining peace and stability on the Korean peninsula. It remains to be seenwhat steps these countries will take in response to North Korea’s actions.
Background:
North Korea’s submarine program has been a source of concern for decades. The country is believed to possess a fleet of conventional submarines, as well as a small number of nuclear-capable submarines. In recent years, NorthKorea has been investing heavily in its submarine program, developing new technologies and upgrading its existing fleet.
The Hero Kim Jun Ok submarine, which North Korea claims is its first nuclear-capable submarine, is a major milestone in the country’s submarine program. The submarine is said to be equipped with a nuclear-powered propulsion system, which would give it a significant range and endurance.
Analysis:
The registration of these submarines with the IMO is a significant development, as it suggests that North Korea is taking steps to legitimize its submarine fleet on the international stage. This could be a prelude to more assertive naval activities by NorthKorea, including the possibility of joint naval exercises with China or Russia.
The international community will need to carefully monitor North Korea’s actions and be prepared to respond accordingly. The registration of these submarines is a reminder that the Korean peninsula remains a volatile region, and that the threat of conflict remains real.
【source】https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20240828000900881?section=nk/index&input=rss
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