North Korea has unveiled a “nuclear tsunami” weapon designed to take out naval task groups and other targets. The likely outcome of this system, if it actually exists, is a big, slow, noisy weapon that will be unmissable by target acquisition systems.
Underwater drones are evolving, and they will be a future threat in various forms, but perhaps not this one:
- Nuclear payload means high mass, which means combat range limitations.
- Torpedo dynamics are well known, even on the guided level, therefore easily identifiable, much like air-launched missiles.
- Stealth torpedos are possible, but this torpedo is big and stealth on that scale would be a high-maintenance issue for anyone.
- The number of deployable systems is questionable. In this case, the vehicle is more complex than the weapon.
- North Korea’s marine environment isn’t mainstream in terms of where and when the system can be deployed.
- It might be a threat to South Korea and Japan. Other targets are likely to be out of range and in areas too dangerous where the system can be countered relatively easily.
- This is fairly similar to the famous Russian nuclear torpedo idea, but North Korea can’t really deploy the system anywhere much but locally.
- Any kind or naval APS underwater system could simply block it with a cubic area pressure wave. Much like hypersonic missiles, disruption is as good as a direct hit.
There’s also a question of authenticity. North Korea did a dummy warhead demonstration last week. The detonation was apparently conventional. That means they haven’t yet shown they can mount a nuclear warhead, which is a totally different system and mass.
This system is theoretically credible as a short-range system, allowing for the lack of proven capability.
The other question is the usual question. Why is North Korea focusing on war at the expense of everything else, notably its own people? I’m pretty sure the answer will appeal to nobody.
____________________________________________________________
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in this Op-Ed are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Digital Journal or its members.
