North Korea builds massive missile frigate, sparking concern
North Korea is reportedly building the largest warship in its history, which is expected to be twice the size of other vessels in the country's fleet, CNN reported, citing satellite images. The ship, under construction at the Nampo shipyard, is a missile frigate (FFG) measuring approximately 459 feet in length.
According to analysts, the images reveal ongoing construction work on the vessel, including its armament. Experts assess that the ship is designed to carry missiles in vertical launch systems capable of targeting both sea and land.
The FFG is approximately 140 meters (459 feet) long, making it the largest warship manufactured in North Korea, according to an analysis by Joseph Bermudez Jr. and Jennifer Jun from the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington.
For comparison, the Arleigh Burke-class missile destroyers of the US Navy are approximately 509 feet long.
According to former US Navy Captain Carl Schuster, it will likely take a year or more before the new North Korean warship can begin sea trials.
Analysts also noted that the ship is probably equipped to install a phased array radar, which can track threats and targets more quickly and accurately than older systems.
400 patrol boats and 70 submarines
The US Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) reported in 2021 that the North Korean Navy comprises about 400 patrol boats and 70 submarines. While this represents a large number of units, most are outdated and small.
The report emphasized that in the event of a conflict with South Korea or the United States, the North Korean Navy would primarily focus on coastal defense, as both nations have significantly larger naval forces.
