In a dramatic display of military might, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) has unleashed a new and enigmatic weapon upon the world stage—the “Haeil.” With officials boldly proclaiming it as the “world’s most powerful weapon,” this torpedo-shaped underwater drone is causing ripples of apprehension among global observers.
Reports suggest that, much like Russia’s fearsome “Poseidon” torpedo, the Haeil can trigger a “radioactive tsunami” upon detonation, presenting an unprecedented threat to global security. Although specifics about the weapon remain closely guarded, it is believed to be powered by a nuclear reactor, enabling it to navigate autonomously beneath the ocean’s surface for extended periods, concealed from prying eyes.
Notably, North Korean state media claims that the Haeil has already undergone testing as an underwater nuclear attack drone. During this secretive test conducted between April 4th and 7th, 2023, the drone remarkably traveled a staggering distance of 621 miles (1,000 km) over an astounding duration of 71 hours and 6 minutes. Impressively, the Haeil struck a simulated target, proving its lethal attack capability, as the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) lauded.
Drawing eerie parallels to Russia’s Poseidon, the Haeil exhibits similar design features, such as its rear pump-jet propulsor and cruciform control surfaces with folding mechanisms. These uncanny resemblances raise intriguing questions about potential collaboration or knowledge-sharing between the two nations in the development of such advanced technology.
Amid the fervor surrounding the Haeil’s unveiling, doubts persist among experts regarding its nuclear power claims. Given North Korea’s existing nuclear capabilities, skepticism lingers about the plausibility of a nuclear-powered drone. If the Haeil is battery-powered, its range would be considerably limited, somewhat assuaging immediate concerns for neighboring nations such as South Korea and Japan.
Furthermore, the sheer size of the weapon poses logistical challenges, as it appears to lack suitable submarine motherships within the DPRK fleet. This raises the possibility that the Haeil may require unconventional launch platforms from dockside piers or specially-modified surface vessels.
Nonetheless, despite the lingering uncertainties, the unveiling of the Haeil underscores North Korea’s relentless pursuit of bolstering its military prowess. The DPRK’s display of the “world’s most powerful weapon” reaffirms the nation’s commitment to expanding its strategic capabilities and asserting its presence on the international stage.
As the world remains on tenterhooks, anxiously speculating about the true potential of the Haeil, one thing is sure—North Korea’s latest military innovation demands attention and vigilance from the global community.