(LEAD) N. Korea conducts underwater test of new precision-guided torpedo using AI : KCNA

SEOUL, Oct. 17 (Yonhap) -- North Korea conducted an underwater test of a new precision-guided torpedo weapon system on Thursday, marking a significant advancement in the country's naval capabilities, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The test, which used artificial intelligence (AI) technology for target detection and guidance, served as a successful demonstration, the KCNA reported, highlighting a major change in the development of North Korea's Navy.

Key defense officials overseeing the test considered it a great success, anticipating a significant transformation in the Navy's operations. AI played a crucial role in the torpedo's target detection and guidance function, as confirmed by the test. Over the past five years, more than 180 rounds of related tests have been conducted, showcasing North Korea's commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities through weapon tests.

Recently, Pyongyang launched two strategic cruise missiles from a presumed 3,000-ton submarine in the East Sea and commissioned the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon and Kang Kon destroyers in the West Sea and the East Sea, respectively.