North Korea showcases drone technology and heavy artillery

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended the ‘Unmanned Aerial Technology Development-2026’ exhibition, marking the first time the country has held a solo event dedicated exclusively to unmanned aerial technology. During the exhibition, North Korea conducted live-fire demonstrations involving tactical suicide drones, multi-purpose unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and tactical cruise missiles.

Reports indicate that the demonstrations included strikes on simulated targets representing South Korean guard posts, K9 self-propelled howitzers, and U.S. M1 Abrams tanks. Additionally, the event featured the firing of more than ten 600mm multiple rocket launchers. Kim Jong Un emphasized that “peace is only guaranteed by strength,” while calling for further advancements in unmanned aerial technology and defense-related artificial intelligence.

Observers note that North Korea appears to be integrating drone tactics and production infrastructure, potentially influenced by recent global conflicts. The exhibition was attended by high-ranking military officials and Kim's family, including his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and daughter, Ju Ae.