New satellite images reveal that North Korea is building what could be its largest warship to date—an estimated 140 to 150 meters in length—despite ongoing international sanctions. The photos, taken by Maxar Technologies and Planet Labs on April 6, show a massive guided-missile frigate (FFG) under construction at a shipyard located roughly 60 kilometers from Pyongyang, on the country’s west coast.
Analysts believe the new warship is designed to carry guided missiles capable of targeting both land and sea threats. “This is by far the largest warship ever constructed in North Korea,” said Joseph Bermudez Jr. and Jennifer Jun of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. The ship is believed to be twice the size of any vessel currently in Kim Jong-un’s fleet and a significant leap in North Korea’s naval ambitions.
Delays in construction are apparent, with analysts noting the absence of superstructure, sensors, and weapons systems in the satellite images. Former U.S. Navy captain Carl Schuster predicts it may take at least a year before the ship is ready for sea trials.
The project comes at a time of escalating military activity in North Korea. Kim Jong-un has recently urged his military to strengthen its readiness for “actual war,” and has increased military exercises in coordination with countries like China and Russia. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte recently expressed concern over the growing cooperation between these nations, calling for tighter Japan-NATO ties in response.
Last month, North Korea also unveiled a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine—marking a major milestone in its naval development. State media confirmed the vessel is part of Kim’s long-term strategy to turn the navy into an elite, nuclear-armed force. South Korean expert Moon Keun-sik estimated the submarine to be a 6,000 to 7,000-ton-class ship, potentially capable of carrying up to 10 nuclear-capable missiles.
The Nuclear Threat Initiative estimates that North Korea now possesses between 64 and 86 submarines—one of the world’s largest fleets—raising concerns in both Washington and Seoul. While some vessels may not yet be fully operational, the direction is clear: North Korea is rapidly expanding and modernizing its naval arsenal, signaling a new phase in its military evolution.