The tactical nuclear attack submarine will carry out “both pre-emptive and retaliatory strikes” and is intended to counter U.S. and Republic of Korean (ROK) “invasion fleets,” Kim reportedly said in a speech at the event. The submarine is likely carrying nuclear submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and cruise missiles, both equipped with nuclear warheads. 

The missiles are most likely stored in vertical silos at the submarine’s large sail. The sail has four large and six small-sized missile hatches on top. The newly launched submarine appears to be converted from an existing Romeo-class submarine.