Has North Korea joined the exclusive nuclear-powered submarine club?

The state-run Korean Central News Agency published images on December 25 of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspecting what they claim is the nation’s first nuclear-powered submarine. “We regard the super-powerful offensive capability as the best shield for national security in developing the armed forces,” Kim was quoted as saying. If the claims are accurate, North Korea now poses a much more dangerous strategic threat. Only China, France, India, Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom are known to currently operate these advanced vessels. Nuclear-powered submarines can sustain higher speeds for longer periods than diesel-electric models, are far quieter, can stay submerged for months, and can launch nuclear missiles from hidden locations—perhaps the most important capability for nuclear deterrence, counterstrikes and surprise attacks.