North Korea tests new AI-equipped torpedo

North Korea announced on Saturday, October 17, 2026, that it had successfully conducted an underwater test of a new precision-guided torpedo weapon system, the Zam-2.0, on Thursday. State media reported that the test confirmed technical upgrades and heralds a significant change in the nation's naval capabilities. Artificial intelligence (AI) technology was applied to the torpedo's target detection and guidance functions, and the test also proved core technology for raising the efficiency of propulsion and rocket propulsion devices. Over 180 related tests have been conducted over the past five years. The country has been actively strengthening its naval capabilities, recently commissioning the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon and Kang Kon destroyers and launching two types of strategic cruise missiles from a submarine.