North Korea is constructing the country’s “largest” warship. For over a decade, there has been no observed large shipbuilding activity in open-air shipyards. The most notable feature of the under-construction ship is reported to be a cage-like metal camouflage. Experts believe this “iron shield” was designed to conceal construction activities and disrupt radar sensor detection. The construction of the warship greatly strengthens North Korea’s maritime capabilities in an unprecedented manner. According to new satellite images, North Korea is likely building its second-largest naval combat vessel at the Chongjin Shipyard, which is probably the country’s largest warship.
Analysts suggest this indicates North Korea is enhancing its conventional maritime capabilities in cooperation with Russia. However, for over a decade, there has been no observed large shipbuilding activity in open-air shipyards. South Korean analysts noted that the assembly of block sections began in May 2024, with the ship’s hull being approximately 117 meters long and 16 meters wide, and additional blocks could further extend the ship.
One of the most striking observations is the application of an unusual security measure on the under-construction ship, which is covered by a rigid, cage-like metal camouflage. First seen near the ship in December, the cover was nearing completion. Unlike traditional canvas covers, the metallic structure seemed designed to conceal construction activities and potentially disrupt radar sensor detection.
An analyst stated, “Such metal camouflage appears to be a deliberate effort to protect the structure of the ship from surveillance. This aligns with North Korea’s broader strategy of increasing secrecy around military advancements.” Satellite images revealed that despite heavy snowfall in early February, the construction area in the open yard of the shipyard remained clear, indicating the high priority of the project. During a visit to the shipyard, Kim Jong-Un emphasized that strengthening the naval forces is “the most crucial issue for defending the country’s maritime sovereignty with determination and increasing readiness for war.”
The construction of the second-largest warship greatly enhances North Korea’s maritime capabilities in an unprecedented manner.