North Korea says it has launched a nuclear assault submarine after years of growth - however South Korea's navy has claimed it doesn't seem to function usually.

Kim Jong Un attended a ceremony to christen the vessel on Wednesday, and described it as a important milestone in his efforts to construct a navy that may counter the US and South Korea.

According to the remoted state's KCNA news company, the submarine is designed to launch nuclear weapons from underwater - however it's unclear what number of missiles it could carry and fireplace.

In principle, this might enhance North Korea's deterrent as a result of it will be capable of retaliate even after absorbing a nuclear assault on land.

Pyongyang now plans to increase this functionality to its present fleet of submarines, and construct additional nuclear-powered vessels in future.

"Achieving a rapid development of our naval forces... is a priority that cannot be delayed given... the enemies' recent aggressive moves and military acts," Kim mentioned in a speech.

The new submarine has been named Hero Kim Kun Ok in honour of a historic North Korean determine, and analysts had first noticed indicators it was being constructed again in 2016.

Two months in the past, the US docked a nuclear-capable missile submarine in South Korean waters for the primary time because the Nineteen Eighties.

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North Korea has test-fired a variety of submarine launched ballistic missiles - in addition to cruise missiles that may be fired from submarines.

But in keeping with analysts, it will take appreciable time and assets for the closely sanctioned nation to construct a fleet that might journey quietly in seas and reliably execute assaults.

Reports have lately prompt that Kim is preparing to visit Russia for a gathering with Vladimir Putin.

North Korea might find yourself offering artillery shells and ammunition in alternate for financial support and superior weapons applied sciences.

South Korea has condemned the launch, with officers accusing Kim of wounding the lives and human rights of his residents.