Quick Take: Sinpo-C Class Submarine Leaves Drydock

Commercial satellite imagery indicates North Korea’s newest ballistic missile submarine (SSB), the Sinpo-C (Hero Kim Kun Ok), has left the drydock after an extended period.

First moved to the drydock in mid-May 2024, a protective covering was built in July, and both the submarine and the covering were shifted to the south end of the drydock in late November, where it remained until recently. Imagery shows the Sinpo-C left the drydock sometime after February 11.

On imagery from February 18, the drydock is empty, and the submarine had returned to the shipyard’s secure boat basin. The Sinpo-C’s stern portion is just visible, peeking out from under the awning. The Sinpo-B class submarine is tied up along the outboard side of the Sinpo-C.

On imagery from February 11, a mobile crane and a vehicle were present on the quay. By February 18, the crane and vehicle were gone and all other vessels had been removed from the basin.

The purpose of these movements is unclear, but may suggest that the fitting-out period is complete.