In a significant move that reflects North Korea’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities, the country recently showcased its version of the “Reaper” drone, known as the “Saetbyol”-9 (Morning Star-9). This multi-role unmanned aerial vehicle, capable of both reconnaissance and strike missions, is anticipated to address the gaps in the precision strike capabilities of the North Korean air force.
The Saetbyol-9: Is it the North Korean Reaper?
The design and structure of the “Saetbyol”-9 strikingly resemble the U.S. “Reaper” drone, earning it the title of the North Korean version of the “Reaper.” Such drones typically evolve from long-endurance reconnaissance drones that have been subsequently armed. While they are perfect for extended reconnaissance missions and possess hunter-killer capabilities, they trade off in areas of maneuverability and self-defense.
The drone’s resemblance to its American counterpart has sparked speculations. Although it seems improbable that North Korea directly captured a U.S. drone, it’s worth noting that Iran claimed to have acquired a U.S. Reaper in the past. Iran subsequently showcased its version of the Reaper, hinting at possible technology sharing or mutual inspiration.
What Does This Mean for North Korea?
The public display of the Saetbyol-9 is not merely a military affair. It’s a strategic political move designed to bolster national pride and confidence, signaling to the world that North Korea can indeed produce a drone that aligns with global standards.
On the military front, the advent of this drone spells a considerable enhancement in North Korea’s reconnaissance and ground attack potential. Prior to this, the North Korean air force’s primary tool for close ground attacks was the Su-25 attack aircraft. However, these aircraft had noticeable limitations in precision-strike due to their dependence on rockets and unguided bombs. Now, with the Saetbyol-9 drone capable of carrying up to 10 precision-guided munitions, the country can potentially fortify its strike capabilities substantially.
Conclusion
North Korea’s introduction of the Saetbyol-9 drone underscores its focus on modernizing its military capabilities. While it remains to be seen how the international community reacts, one thing is certain: North Korea is steadfast in its mission to narrow the gap in conventional capabilities with its adversaries.
