Kim Jong Un Demands AI-Powered Drone Superiority Amid Rising Tensions

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has just called for his country to achieve 'absolute superiority' in drone technology, pushing for top priority on artificial intelligence (AI) in unmanned weapon systems. This directive came during a special exhibition and demonstration held on October 29, 2026, where Pyongyang showed off new attack drones, tactical cruise missiles, and even a large, previously unseen stealth drone. This isn't a sudden move; Kim has been pushing for advanced military tech, especially AI-equipped drones, since late 2024, with reports of mass production orders for suicide attack drones. The recent exhibition also featured demonstrations of multipurpose drones firing air-to-surface missiles and the public debut of its powerful 600mm multiple rocket launcher, capable of carrying tactical nuclear warheads. Experts believe North Korea is learning valuable lessons from the Russia-Ukraine War, where drones have played a big role, helping them improve their own military plans. The focus on smart, unmanned weapons means greater worries for regional security. These developments are happening at a time of high tension on the Korean Peninsula, with South Korea detecting multiple short-range ballistic missile launches recently. With North Korea openly showing off its growing 'drone military might,' targeting mock South Korean and US vehicles, the coming months will show how Seoul and Washington will respond to Pyongyang's rapidly evolving, AI-powered threats.