DPRK has developed at least two versions of Lancet drone analogs

22 November, 2024 North Korean drones on display in Pyongyang. November 2024. Photo: KCNA

North Korea (DPRK) has developed at least two types of kamikaze drones that structurally resemble the Russian Lancet drone. This is evidenced by a photo published by the North Korean state news agency KCNA. The drones were presented, among other weapons, at an exhibition of the DPRK defense industry, which opened in Pyongyang on November 21.

Previously, the DPRK state media also published footage of the launch of the drones of this design during a demonstration to North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un.

The DPRK attack drones at an exhibition in Pyongyang. November, 2024. Photo credits: KCNA

Both drones have two X-shaped wings that enable flight and maneuvering, but differ in size.

The large kamikaze drone is almost identical in size and shape to the Russian Lancet or Israeli Hero strike UAVs, but may be slightly larger.

Tests of North Korean strike drones. November 2024. Photo: KCNA

According to the previous photos, this drone is launched using a rocket booster.

Such a launcher is available for the Iranian Shahed-136 drone, which is produced in Russia under the name Geran-2 and is actively used for strikes against Ukraine. A number of other drones also have this mechanism. The fuselage of the smaller drone is very similar in shape to the American kamikaze UAV Switchblade 600, but has X-shaped wings like the Lancet.

Switchblade 600.

Photo from open sources

Probably due to its smaller size, this North Korean drone is launched from a tube launcher, just like the American original. The DPRK first showed footage of testing its own attack drones of a similar constitution in August 2024. The specifications of these drones are currently unknown.

And recently, after the tests, Kim Jong-un ordered to put them into mass production.

North Korea's attack drone test. November 2024. Photo credits: KCNA

The DPRK's close ties with Russia could expand their cooperation in the development and production of, among other things, kamikaze drones.

The Russian Federation could share its developments in this area and its experience in using them as part of the payment for military assistance provided by North Korea for the war against Ukraine.

Lancet loitering munition.

Photo from open sources

The Russian Lancet strike drones are actively used by the Russian invaders in the war with Ukraine to destroy mostly military equipment.