Recent satellite imagery from Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs, captured on April 6, reveals the ongoing construction of a significant naval vessel at the Nampo shipyard, situated approximately 60 kilometres from Pyongyang on North Korea’s western coast. Analysts suggest that this vessel is likely a guided-missile frigate (FFG) designed to launch missiles from vertical launch tubes, targeting land and sea-based objectives.
The FFG is approximately 140 metres long, marking it as one of North Korea’s largest naval constructions. For perspective, the US Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Constellation-class frigates measure 154 metres and 151 metres respectively. The existence of this new warship fits within the context of North Korea’s rapid military modernisation efforts, as the Kim regime enhances its arsenal, including intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of reaching the US.
Despite facing stringent UN sanctions that limit access to materials and technology, North Korea’s closer ties with Russia, particularly since the onset of the Ukraine war, might be facilitating access to necessary resources and technological assistance. Notably, retired South Korean admiral Kim Duk-ki speculates that Russia could be providing technology for the frigate’s missile systems.
Recently released images by the state-run Korean Central Television showed leader Kim Jong Un inspecting the construction, indicating high-level interest and involvement. These images suggest that the new ship may include features like modern vertical launch cells and possibly phased-array radar systems, which could enhance target tracking capabilities.
However, experts urge caution in assessing North Korea’s advanced capabilities, noting that building a modern warship involves complex integration of various systems, including communications and weaponry. As former US Navy captain Carl Schuster points out, technical expertise and infrastructure are fundamental for operating advanced vessels, and questions remain regarding North Korea’s capacity to manage and maintain such a ship, considering the operational costs involved.
Recent estimates indicate that North Korea’s navy consists of around 400 patrol combatants and 70 submarines, but many of these vessels are outdated. Analysts have emphasised that despite Kim’s ambitions to modernise naval capabilities—including submarine-launched missiles—North Korea’s current navy would primarily function in coastal defence scenarios when compared to the advanced naval forces of South Korea and the United States.
As construction progresses, it is expected to take at least another year before the new frigate can commence sea trials, with remaining challenges related to integrating weapon systems and sensors. Furthermore, Kim has acknowledged the pressing need for a new naval base to support larger surface ships, highlighting his strategic push to upgrade North Korea’s naval fleet alongside other military enhancements, including nuclear-powered submarines.