North Korea Develop Drones Similar to US-made “Reaper”, “Global Hawk”
It is uncertain since when North Korea developed both drones, but two years ago, its leader, Kim Jong Un, mobilized the country's military to develop "attack drones" and "surveillance drones" with a capability to operate up to 500 km.
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — North Korea, through its official media, has revealed for the first time two of its drones, whose designs closely resemble the “Global Hawk” and MQ-9 “Reaper” drones developed by the United States.
It is uncertain when North Korea developed these drones, but two years ago, its leader, Kim Jong Un, mobilized the country’s military to develop “attack drones” and “surveillance drones” with a range of up to 500 km.
Both North Korean drones were showcased to notable figures, including Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, at a recent weapons and defense exhibition held in the capital, Pyongyang.
Information from within North Korea indicates that the military serial numbers of these drones have already undergone flight tests.
A drone resembling the MQ-9 Reaper from the United States is also equipped with guided missiles of an unknown type, but its design is similar to the “Hellfire” guided missiles made in the U.S. and commonly used by the involved drones.
Yang Uk, a military analyst at the Asan Institute in Seoul, quoted by NK News, stated that North Korea’s imitation drones have the capability to carry six guided missiles, similar to the “Hellfire.”
The imitation North Korean drones appear to be more heavily armed than the “Reaper,” as they can carry a greater number of guided missiles.
The “hump” in front of the imitation MQ-9 Reaper suggests it may house satellite communication equipment, although analysts state that North Korea currently lacks satellite communication technology.
However, the “hump” may also contain other equipment.
Meanwhile, the drone resembling the Global Hawk was detected at the Panghyon Air Force Base in North Korea, believed to be undergoing flight tests.
Analysts suggest that the Global Hawk-like drone is likely a High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) drone.
North Korea’s ability to develop these imitation drones likely aims to enhance its Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, which have been considered a weakness in its military.
It is believed that both drones will be used by North Korea to gather various information about South Korea and the United States in borderland and maritime regions. — DSA
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