Sinpo-class Ballistic Missile Submarine

Sinpo-class Ballistic Missile Submarine

Type: Ballistic Missile Submarine

Domain: sea

Country of Origin: North Korea

Manufacturer: Korean Peoples Army Munitions Industry

First Deployed: 2015

Overview

The Sinpo-class (also called Gorae-class) is North Korea's sole ballistic missile submarine, representing the nation's only sea-based nuclear deterrent. Displacing approximately 1,500–2,000 tonnes, it is a very small submarine compared to superpower SSBNs. The vessel can carry 1-2 Pukguksong-1 submarine-launched ballistic missiles. It has been used for test launches of SLBM variants. Despite its limited capability, it provides North Korea with a theoretical second-strike capability that complicates enemy targeting of land-based missiles.

Technical Specifications

crew~50 (estimated)
length~67 m (estimated)
missiles1-2x Pukguksong SLBM tubes
propulsionDiesel-electric
displacement~2,000 tonnes (estimated)

Operators

Related sea Weapon Systems