North Korea Claims AI-Powered Torpedo Test

North Korea announced on Saturday that it had successfully tested a new torpedo system equipped with artificial intelligence for target detection and guidance. The Korean Central News Agency reported that the weapon, designated Zam-2.0, was tested on Thursday and described it as a “super-speed, precisely guided” torpedo.

The agency did not provide details on how artificial intelligence was integrated into the system. The report also stated that the test validated the torpedo’s propulsion systems, which have undergone more than 180 tests over the past five years. South Korea’s military had not immediately commented on the report.

This announcement comes as North Korea has intensified its weapons demonstrations in recent weeks. The country recently conducted its first underwater-launched missile tests in nearly three years. Leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly shifted focus towards naval capabilities, following years of concentrating on ballistic missile development. Experts suggest these recent missile tests may have involved a submarine designed for nuclear weapons deployment, which Pyongyang has indicated is nearing operational status.

North Korea also tested hypersonic missile systems on September 20 and October 3, aiming to enhance its arsenal against missile defense systems in South Korea and Japan. Kim Yo Jong, a prominent figure in the North Korean government and sister to Kim Jong Un, claimed that the missiles tested on October 3 also utilized artificial intelligence technology.

However, some analysts express skepticism regarding the extent of North Korea's AI capabilities in weaponry, suggesting that while advancements in guidance software are likely, sophisticated digital features like autonomous target designation may not yet be fully realized by the country.