North Korea publicly fires ‘Sniper' 600 mm MRL for first time

North Korea's 600 mm KN-25 MRL system is pictured at a live-fire event during January 2026. (KCNA via KNS/AFP via Getty Images)

North Korea has conducted the first public firing of its upgraded 600 mm ‘Sniper' multiple rocket launcher (MRL), as part of a broader demonstration of missile and unmanned capabilities, state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on 30 October.

The weapons demonstration – conducted on 29 October alongside North Korea's Unmanned Aeronautical Technology Development-2026 exhibition – involved a 600 mm MRL battalion as well as one-way attack unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), multi-purpose UAVs, air-to-surface missiles, and tactical cruise missiles, KCNA said.

The agency said the exhibition was attended by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. It added that the weapons struck targets on a small island during the demonstration, likely off Wonsan on North Korea's east coast.

“Tactical suicide attack drones, air-to-surface missiles from multi-purpose drones, and cruise missiles hit the islet target with 100 percent accuracy,” KCNA reported. “The 600 mm-calibre ultra-precision multiple rocket launcher, which is called ‘Sniper', opened fire before the public for the first time.”

Photographs released by KCNA appeared to show more than 10 600 mm MRLs firing simultaneously, weapons being launched from UAVs, and loitering munitions striking mock targets, including tanks and radars.

UAV capabilities

Janes identified the armed Saetbyol-9 (‘Morning Star-9') multirole UAV launching an unidentified weapon and the Saetbyol-4 (‘Morning Star-4') strategic reconnaissance UAV in the KCNA images. Multiple airframes of both platforms were on display.

Janes