Satellite Photos Over North Korea Reveal Kim's Partially Sunken New Warship

Published: Friday, May 23, 2025 at 8:29 am

North Korea's New Warship Damaged in Failed Launch, Satellite Images Reveal

New satellite images have emerged, offering a stark look at the aftermath of a failed launch involving a North Korean destroyer, reportedly witnessed by Kim Jong Un himself. The 5,000-ton warship, a significant project for the Kim regime, appears to be severely damaged and partially submerged at the Hambuk Shipyard in Chongjin.

The incident, which occurred during the launch, saw the bottom of the ship's hull pierced after a transport cradle malfunctioned. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un expressed strong disapproval, calling the incident a "serious accident and criminal act" caused by negligence. The destroyer, part of North Korea's efforts to modernize its armed forces, is the second of its kind, following the launch of the Cho Hyon in April.

Satellite imagery, including high-definition images from Airbus Defence and Space, confirms the ship's precarious position, listing heavily to starboard and partially covered by tarpaulins. Analysts suggest the vessel may be on its side or at least partially submerged. This failure is particularly noteworthy as North Korea rarely admits to such setbacks, likely compelled by the undeniable evidence provided by satellite imagery.

Kim Jong Un has ordered the ship's restoration, setting a deadline for completion before a key Workers' Party of Korea meeting in June, emphasizing the political importance of the project. This incident highlights North Korea's ongoing efforts to bolster its military capabilities, despite international sanctions. The Choe Hyon class represents a significant shift in North Korea's naval focus, moving beyond its traditional coastal defense strategy.

BNN's Perspective: While the incident is undoubtedly a setback for North Korea's military ambitions, it also underscores the challenges faced by the regime in its pursuit of advanced weaponry. The incident highlights the importance of international scrutiny and the limitations of North Korea's technological capabilities.

Keywords: North Korea, Kim Jong Un, warship, destroyer, satellite imagery, failed launch, Chongjin, Hambuk Shipyard, military, sanctions, nuclear weapons, ballistic missiles, KCNA, Choe Hyon, Cho Hyon, shipbuilding, defense, international relations.

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