The key facts

  • North Korea tested the Zam-2.0 torpedo with AI for target detection and guidance, KCNA reported
  • Earlier, on Wednesday, two types of submarine-launched strategic cruise missiles were tested
  • Trump stated in August that Kim Jong Un has '57 very powerful nuclear warheads' and spoke of plans to meet before the end of the year

Zam-2.0 Test

North Korea announced on Saturday the testing of a new torpedo system with artificial intelligence. According to the state agency KCNA, this concerns the 'high-speed, precision-guided' Zam-2.0 system, in which AI is used for target detection and guidance. The report claims that the test confirmed the operation of the torpedo's propulsion systems.

Series of Tests

The test became part of a wave of recent weapons demonstrations by North Korea. On Wednesday, the country reportedly tested two types of strategic submarine-launched cruise missiles — according to available data, they were launched from a submarine, which is linked to Pyongyang's efforts to strengthen its naval capabilities. In addition, in recent weeks North Korea has conducted a series of ballistic missile tests amid growing tensions with South Korea.

Context: Trump's Statements

In August, US President Donald Trump told journalists that the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un possesses '57 very powerful nuclear warheads,' again emphasizing good relations with him: 'The fact that I get along with him is a good thing, not a bad thing.' At the same time, he added that Pyongyang's nuclear arsenal should 'never' have been allowed. Trump then said he intends to meet with Kim before the end of the year, without revealing details. Earlier this month, he also claimed that he 'constantly' prevents war between North and South Korea.