North Korean submarine activity is at ‘highly unusual’ and ‘unprecedented’ levels
North Korea has reportedly been testing its submarine missile launch systems
US detected three ‘cold ejection’ tests of sub-based launch tubes in July
Experts believe regime’s sub launch capability is rudimentary but growing
Older Romeo-class submarine seen patrolling in international waters last month
By KEITH GRIFFITH
DAILYMAIL.COM
1 August 2017
The US has reportedly detected a ramp-up in North Korean submarine activity and tests of ‘cold launch’ submarine missile ejection systems.
A US defense official told CNN on Monday that ‘highly unusual and unprecedented levels’ of North Korean submarine activities had been detected, including three ‘cold ejection’ tests in July.
Cold ejection involves the use of pressurized gas to expel a missile from the launch tube before ignition to reduce the risk of catastrophic damage to the vessel.
The latest cold ejection test took place on land at Sinpo Naval Shipyard on Sunday, the defense official said.
North Korea is believed to have about 70 submarines in its fleet, but most are older and unable to fire missiles.
The regime’s newest and largest submarine, the diesel powered Sinpo-class, is the only one believed to have ballistic missile launch capability.
The Sinpo-class is believed to have a range of 2,800 kilometers, less than half the distance from North Korea to Hawaii.
There is only one confirmed Sinpo-class sub (also called Gorae, or whale) in the North Korean fleet.
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