North Korea Unveils New Air-to-Air Missile and Aerial Bombs
North Korea has revealed a new air-to-air missile that shows significant progress in its military technology. On May 15, 2025, during a live-fire drill, the missile was tested, where a MiG-29 fighter jet successfully launched it under the watchful eye of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. North Korea’s newly unveiled missile closely resembles China’s PL-12, a beyond-visual-range missile used by the Chinese Air Force. The PL-12 is known for its mid-course data-link guidance and active radar homing in the final phase, allowing for precise long-range targeting. While the official name of the North Korean missile hasn’t been revealed, its design suggests it was made to mimic the PL-12’s features and performance.
This missile is compatible with North Korea’s MiG-29 fighter jets, which were limited by old missile systems. Adding a radar-guided missile similar to the PL-12 would improve the combat range and the jets’ ability to hit targets precisely. This represents a major upgrade for the North Korean Air Force, which has long relied on older missiles like the R-23, R-24, and R-27. North Korea has reportedly upgraded around 20 MiG-29 jets to carry this missile. During the test, the missile shot down a simulated cruise missile and a drone, indicating it is capable of being used in the field. This could give North Korea stronger air defense and better chances in aerial combat.
North Korea has also developed new precision-guided aerial bombs, turning regular free-fall bombs into smart weapons. These upgraded bombs are guided by satellite navigation or electro-optical targeting systems. As a result, these bombs can strike their targets more accurately and allow them more options during airstrikes. These upgrades are similar to the examples of U.S.-made JDAM SDBs and Russia’s KAB series. It is possible that the expertise to develop and employ these have come as part of North Korea and Russia’s recent increased cooperation.
North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, reviewed air force drills during which these advancements were presented. The 1st Air Division led both air-to-air and ground-attack missions during the exercise. If the North Korean air force rolls out the new ordnance its provides them a significant step-up in capability.