North Korea carries out a test of 'submerged nuclear weapons system' - according to state media.

According to reports from state media, North Korea claims to have conducted a test of its "underwater nuclear weapons system" in response to joint military exercises by the US, South Korea, and Japan. The test, which involved the "Haeil-5-23" nuclear-capable underwater attack drones, took place in waters off North Korea's east coast. This is not the first time North Korea has conducted such tests, but it comes amidst an escalation in the country's rhetoric. North Korea has repeatedly emphasized its military buildup, preparing for a potential war that could happen at any time on the Korean peninsula. Its leader, Kim Jong Un, recently declared the abandonment of reunification goals and labeled the South as the "principle enemy". These statements followed claims of advancements in North Korea's military and nuclear capabilities, including underwater operations. Although the details of these weapons and their capabilities are unknown, experts suggest that they are less significant than the country's nuclear ballistic missiles. North Korea conducted numerous tests of long-range missiles last year and also claimed to have placed a spy satellite in space, with more planned for this year. The North Korean defense ministry stated that the underwater system was tested to deter the military maneuvers of the US and its allies, which had recently performed joint exercises in the waters near the Korean peninsula.