North Korea’s State Media Reports Test of AI-Guided Torpedo System
North Korea tested an artificial intelligence-guided precision torpedo system designed for target detection and guidance, state media reported on Saturday, marking another step in the country’s weapons development cycle.
The Sub-Surface Test of the Zam-2.0 System
The Korean Central News Agency reported that the “super-speed” torpedo system, designated as “Zam-2.0,” underwent a sub-surface test on Thursday, October 15, 2026. The test aimed to confirm the success of the weapon’s technical upgrades, specifically the integration of artificial intelligence into target detection and guidance functions.
The state-run report stated that the trial verified core technologies meant to improve propulsion efficiency and the performance of rocket propulsion devices. The project has completed more than 180 different types of tests over the past five years.
North Korea Tests Hypersonic Missiles Using AI
The torpedo announcement follows a series of military tests by Pyongyang. Earlier in the month, North Korea reported the successful test-firing of a medium-range hypersonic missile also utilizing artificial intelligence-assisted technology.
State media claimed that the hypersonic missile was incapable of being intercepted or evaded and could change flight trajectories at low altitudes. Analysts suggest that North Korea’s recent weapons advancements may be tied to technical cooperation stemming from Pyongyang’s deployment of soldiers to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Expert Assessments on AI Integration in Naval Warfare
Artificial intelligence could potentially assist torpedoes in distinguishing between genuine targets and decoys.
Lim added that Pyongyang is currently investing resources into submarine and torpedo capabilities to demonstrate that United States strategic assets can be weakened or neutralized. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the necessity of increasing the artificial intelligence level within the country’s weapon systems during a speech in September 2026.
Trump Considers Meeting Kim Jong Un
Yang noted, however, that the torpedo system still requires time to mature, pointing out technical challenges such as reducing sub-surface noise.
The latest weapons tests coincide with growing speculation regarding a potential meeting between United States President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Discussions have intensified as leaders prepare for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit scheduled for November 2026 in China. Trump signaled openness to dialogue earlier in the week, stating that a meeting with Kim during his upcoming Asian tour remains a possibility, though prior signals from Washington have received no formal response from Pyongyang.