North Korea lacks technology to produce modern drones – national security expert

He shared his insights with Espreso TV.

“We need to pay attention to these kamikaze drones reportedly planned for production in North Korea. If this plan is carried out, the drones will most likely be of Chinese origin, routed through Russia to North Korea. Production might then be set up there to create the illusion that North Korea has made significant progress in high technology,” Varchenko explained.

At present, North Korea does not possess the technology required to produce modern drones.

“Yes, they are advancing in nuclear weapons development, but drones are highly technological products that demand substantial investment and their own technology, which, in my opinion, North Korea does not have. To bolster its image, North Korea might claim it can produce not just outdated 1947–1953 artillery shells but also modern drones. This is likely how the situation will unfold. There won’t be many drones, as the focus will be on the announcement of their production. It’s also unlikely they’ll be transported from North Korea when similar production could easily be established in Russia,” Varchenko added.

• On December 23, South Korean intelligence reported that North Korea might be preparing to deploy additional troops and provide Russia with more military equipment, including kamikaze drones, to support Moscow in its war against Ukraine.