North Korea introduces an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

 

Kim Jong-un inspects an improved version of the Cheonma-2 tank

In May 2025, North Korea demonstrated a new version of its Cheonma-2 main battle tank, which features significant improvements in protection systems, turret design, and optical equipment. These changes underscore Pyongyang's desire to modernize its armed forces and increase the combat capability of its tank units.

Key Cheonma-2 Improvements

The new version of the tank demonstrates a number of important updates that make it more effective on the battlefield.:

1. Advanced protection systems: The tank has received reinforced armor and possibly dynamic protection, which significantly increases its survivability in a collision with modern anti-tank weapons. 

2. Upgraded Turret Design: The new turret shape not only improves aerodynamics, but also increases crew protection. It is also equipped with additional modules to accommodate the equipment.

3. Updated optics and sighting systems: The installation of modern optical and thermal imaging systems allows the crew to more effectively detect targets in any conditions, including at night.

These improvements build on the experience of the previous version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, which has already shown significant progress in firepower and protection.

Comparison with the original 2020 version

The original version of Cheonma-2, introduced in 2020, was focused on increasing firepower and survivability. She received a more powerful cannon capable of hitting modern enemy tanks, as well as improved active defense systems. However, the new version of 2025 goes even further, offering comprehensive solutions to adapt to modern combat conditions.

Significance for the DPRK Armed Forces

The Cheonma-2 remains a key element of North Korea's tank fleet. Its modernization shows that Pyongyang continues to invest in the development of its ground forces, despite economic sanctions and international pressure. Improving the characteristics of the tank is aimed at increasing its competitiveness in comparison with its South Korean and American counterparts.

The improved Cheonma-2 can be used in both defensive and offensive operations. Due to its improved performance, it is able to effectively counter modern threats, including high-precision anti-tank missiles and aircraft. This makes it an important component of North Korea's deterrence strategy.

Unveiled in May 2025, the Cheonma-2 tank version demonstrates North Korea's serious steps to modernize its armed forces. Improvements in security systems, tower construction, and optics underscore Pyongyang's desire to maintain its military might. However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of further escalation of tensions.

North Korea launches mass production of powerful KN-25 missile system

 

North Korean leader Kim Jong- un inspects the production line of the 600- mm multiple launch rocket system KN-25

On May 3, 2025, photos appeared on social media confirming the start of mass production of one of the world's most powerful rocket launchers, the KN-25. This move marks a significant strengthening of the DPRK's long-range precision artillery forces and underscores Pyongyang's desire to strengthen its deep-impact capabilities. Equipped with 600mm guided missiles, the KN-25 is capable of hitting targets up to 380 km away, making it a unique hybrid of traditional multiple launch rocket systems and tactical ballistic missiles.

The KN-25 is an advanced development by North Korean military engineers. The main features of the system include:

- Powerful 600mm Rockets: These guided munitions have high accuracy and destructive power.

- Firing range: The maximum range is 380 km, which allows you to hit strategically important targets in South Korea and even beyond.

- Hybrid design: The KN-25 combines features of multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and ballistic missiles, making it a difficult target for missile defense.

This combination of characteristics makes the KN-25 a serious threat to the enemy, especially amid tensions on the Korean peninsula.

The mass production of the KN-25 indicates that North Korea is actively increasing its military capabilities. The deployment of this system in large numbers is aimed at achieving several strategic goals.:

1. Enhanced Deep Strike capabilities: The KN-25 allows Pyongyang to hit key enemy targets at a considerable distance from the border.

2. Countering missile defense systems: The KN-25 missiles are designed to reduce the effectiveness of South Korean and American missile defense systems.

3. Psychological pressure: The presence of powerful weapons of this class increases pressure on the international community and demonstrates the DPRK's determination to defend its interests.

The start of mass production of the KN-25 has caused concern among both South Korea and the United States. Experts note that this system significantly enhances the military potential of the DPRK and may become a factor of destabilization in the region. In this regard, increased sanctions pressure on Pyongyang is expected, as well as the modernization of the allies' defense systems.

South Korea and the United States can accelerate the development of new missile defense technologies to neutralize the threat from the KN-25. This could lead to a new round of the arms race on the Korean peninsula.

The introduction of the KN-25 into the armed forces of the DPRK demonstrates that the country continues to invest in the development of its military technologies. Given the current geopolitical situation, it can be expected that Pyongyang will continue to improve its missile systems, including increasing their range and accuracy.

However, it also raises questions about stability in the region and the risks of conflict escalation. 

The mass production of the KN-25 missile system underscores North Korea's desire to strengthen its military capabilities and challenge the dominance of South Korean and American missile defense systems. This event has far-reaching consequences for the security of the region. The future of the Korean peninsula largely depends on how the countries involved in the conflict will respond to such steps by Pyongyang.

The United States is considering the permanent deployment of F-35A fighter jets in South Korea: a strategic shift on the Korean Peninsula

 

The United States is exploring the possibility of permanently deploying F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea. This step could be an important strategic decision, significantly enhancing US air capabilities in the region. Currently, American forces on the Korean Peninsula are heavily dependent on aging F-16 Fighting Falcons, which makes the modernization of the fleet of combat aircraft especially urgent.

The F-35A Lightning II is an advanced 5th generation fighter with stealth technology, high maneuverability and the ability to integrate with modern combat control systems. The permanent deployment of these aircraft in South Korea will allow the United States to provide a rapid response to any threats in one of the most tense regions of the world. 

So far, the F-35A has been temporarily deployed in the region solely for joint exercises with allies. However, the continued presence of these fighters will send a serious signal to potential adversaries and underscore the United States' willingness to defend its interests and the security of its allies.

Kunsan Air Base, located on the west coast of South Korea, has long played a key role in the US defense strategy. Its proximity to the border with the DPRK makes it an important outpost for deterring aggression from North Korea. The deployment of the F-35A at this base will significantly strengthen the defense capabilities not only of South Korea, but also of the entire region.

The continued presence of the F-35A will also increase the level of interoperability between the U.S. and South Korean armed forces. This is especially important in the context of growing tensions caused by the DPRK's nuclear program and its provocative actions.

Plans to deploy the F-35A may cause concern to China and Russia, which have traditionally been following US military moves in the Asia-Pacific region. For North Korea, this will be another reason to strengthen its rhetoric and, possibly, new weapons tests.

At the same time, US allies, including Japan and Australia, are likely to approve this step, seeing it as strengthening collective security. The joint efforts of the countries of the region are aimed at countering threats and maintaining stability.

The permanent deployment of the F-35A at Kunsan Air Base will be part of a broader strategy to strengthen the US military presence in the Asia-Pacific region. This decision also demonstrates Washington's commitment to protecting its allies and countering the challenges posed by the growing military activity of China and North Korea.

South Korea is testing an innovative photonic radar to detect drones

South Korea has successfully tested a new radar technology capable of detecting small drones at a distance of several kilometers. This was announced on Thursday by the state Armaments Agency. The new technology, based on the use of photonic radar and artificial intelligence, will significantly enhance the intelligence capabilities of the country's army.

The Defense Development Agency (ADD) stated that the tests were conducted in open air conditions and confirmed the high efficiency of the technology. The photonic radar, based on the principles of advanced optical technologies, is able to detect even small drones, which often go unnoticed by traditional surveillance systems. This is especially important in the face of the growing threat from drones used for both reconnaissance and attacks.

Photonic radar uses light signals instead of radio waves, which allows for higher detection accuracy. Thanks to its integration with artificial intelligence, the system can analyze data in real time and distinguish drones from other objects such as birds or aerial debris. This makes the technology particularly useful for protecting strategically important facilities, including military bases and civilian infrastructure.

Amid tensions on the Korean peninsula and the growing popularity of drones as a tool for reconnaissance and attacks, new technology is becoming a key element of defense. It will allow the South Korean army to quickly identify potential threats and take measures to neutralize them. In addition, the introduction of photonic radar can be an important step in the development of the national defense industry.

Successful tests open up wide opportunities for further use of the technology. Photonic radar can be used not only for military purposes, but also to ensure security at mass events, airports and other critical facilities. Its ability to work in difficult conditions, including bad weather or interference, makes it a versatile solution for a variety of tasks.

The development of South Korea attracts the attention of the world community. Countries facing similar threats may be interested in this technology to enhance their defense capabilities. The success of ADD demonstrates the potential of photonic technologies in creating innovative security systems.

The United States and South Korea conducted large-scale joint exercises involving B-1B bombers

 

Rockwell B-1 Lancer

On April 15, the United States and South Korea conducted joint air exercises, demonstrating their military might over the Korean peninsula. The maneuvers involved B-1B Lancer strategic bombers, as well as American and South Korean F-16 and F-35A stealth fighters. This step was aimed at confirming the readiness of the two countries to counter potential threats in the region.

South Korea's Ministry of National Defense stressed that the exercises were conducted to demonstrate "the continued visibility of the expanded deterrence of the United States." The choice of the date for the mission is also not accidental: the exercises were held on the birthday of Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. This decision is intended to send a clear signal to Pyongyang about the determination of Washington and Seoul to protect their interests.

The maneuvers involved a B-1B Lancer strategic bomber capable of carrying up to 57 tons of conventional ammunition. This aircraft is known for its high speed and range, making it an indispensable tool for deterrence missions. In addition, F-16 multirole fighters and modern F-35A stealth fighters participated in the exercises, enhancing the capabilities of the joint air group.

The main purpose of the exercises was to confirm the readiness of the United States and South Korea to act together in the event of a military threat. The deployment of strategic bombers over the Korean Peninsula symbolizes the US commitment to its "enhanced deterrence" policy, which guarantees the protection of allies using the most advanced military technologies.

The exercise has raised tensions in the region, especially given North Korea's recent actions, including ballistic missile tests. For Seoul and Washington, this was an important step in demonstrating strength and unity in the face of growing threats from the DPRK.

The joint exercises confirmed the strength of the military alliance between the United States and South Korea. In the future, the countries plan to continue holding such events in order to strengthen their defense strategy and ensure stability in the region.

The April 15 exercises were a prime example of how the United States and South Korea coordinate their actions to counter threats. The deployment of B-1B strategic bombers and stealth fighters underscores the seriousness of the two countries' intentions. In the context of growing tensions on the Korean peninsula, such steps play a key role in ensuring peace and security.

The United States has assigned the designation "KN-35" to North Korea's newest short-range missile

The United States has officially assigned the designation "KN-35" to the latest short-range ballistic missile (CRBM) developed by North Korea. This information was confirmed by South Korean military sources and caused a wide response in the international community. The KN-35 becomes the first missile in this category introduced by the DPRK since the introduction of the KN-23, KN-24 and KN-25 series.

At the moment, the exact characteristics of the new missile remain classified, but experts suggest that the KN-35 may be an improved version of previously developed models. The KN-23, KN-24 and KN-25 family of missiles have already proven themselves to be highly accurate systems with the ability to maneuver on the flight path, which makes it difficult for anti-missile systems to intercept them.

The KN-35 is likely to be equipped with improved guidance technology, increased range, and increased warhead power. This makes it an even more formidable tool in the DPRK's arsenal.

The designation "KN-35" highlights the United States' focus on the development of North Korea's military technology. According to analysts, this missile may become part of the DPRK's strategy to strengthen its defensive and offensive power in the region. Its appearance increases tensions on the Korean peninsula and poses new challenges to the missile defense systems of South Korea, Japan and the United States.

 South Korea and the United States are actively strengthening their intelligence and defense cooperation to counter potential threats. At the same time, the United Nations and other international organizations are calling on the DPRK to stop testing ballistic missiles that violate Security Council resolutions.

The development of the KN-35 demonstrates the DPRK's ability to innovate technologically, despite economic sanctions and isolation. It also shows that the country continues to invest significant resources in the development of its armed forces, especially in the field of ballistic technology.

The appearance of the KN-35 raises new questions about the future of security in the Asia-Pacific region. The strengthening of the DPRK's military potential may provoke an arms race, which will create additional risks to stability in the region. Experts believe that the international community should take measures to de-escalate tensions and resume dialogue with Pyongyang.