North Korea has for the first time publicly acknowledged using artificial intelligence in missile technology, state media reported on Wednesday. The tests, supervised by leader Kim Jong Un, included a tactical ballistic missile and artillery rockets, along with a 'newly-developed lightweight multi-purpose missile launching system'.
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) said the launches involved assessing 'the AI-guided hit accuracy of a tactical cruise missile'. Analysts noted this was the first time Pyongyang has confirmed employing AI in its missile systems, which uses real-time data to identify and lock onto targets.
Kim expressed satisfaction, describing the tests as 'a clear signal of upgrading of our military force'. He reiterated plans to strengthen both nuclear and conventional forces. The South Korean military detected multiple projectiles, including a short-range ballistic missile that flew 80km before falling into the sea.
North Korea's tactical cruise missile now reportedly uses advanced navigation systems, including terrain-matching and AI terminal guidance, to strike targets up to 100km away. The US military already deploys similar AI tools, with Centcom chief Brad Cooper saying they 'help us sift through vast amounts of data in seconds'.
