North Korea has unveiled its first nuclear-powered submarine, a development Washington has long feared. The vessel, displacing 8,700 tons, is larger than earlier generations and capable of carrying ballistic missiles, including potential hypersonic glide vehicles. Analysts say the sub provides Pyongyang with a survivable second-strike nuclear capability, enabling attacks from unexpected directions, including toward the U.S. mainland. The move comes amid decades of tensions, with multiple U.S. administrations previously considering strikes against the country. Experts warn the submarine marks a dangerous escalation in North Korea’s deterrence strategy, increasing the global security risks in the Indo-Pacific region. Watch