Unusual Object at the Sinpo Secure Boat Basin

Recent reports indicate that South Korean intelligence is closely monitoring activities at North Korea’s Sinpo South Shipyard for preparations to launch a new ballistic missile submarine. However, no notable activity has been observed at the construction and finishing halls or their associated parts yard on commercial satellite imagery. While the awning at the secure boat basin obscures whether or not a submarine is berthed there, the submersible barge is partially visible. There is also a linear object, approximately 16 meters long, situated on the quay, possibly on a dolly. Its purpose is unknown, and there are no vehicles or equipment around it.

Figure 1. Overview of secure boat basin.