Nuclear bomb materials – North Korea: increased activity in the reactor complex

On the one hand, the five-megawatt Yongbyon reactor is still operating, according to the Stimson Center’s North Korean news site “38 North,” citing satellite imagery. On the other hand, there are indications that the construction of an experimental light water reactor is about to be completed. New construction work had also started around the uranium enrichment plant. These developments may “reflect ruler Kim Jong-un’s recent directive to increase the country’s fissile material production and expand its nuclear arsenal,” it said.

Tensions are rising
Tensions on the Korean peninsula are currently escalating. North Korea, largely isolated because of its nuclear weapons program, has repeatedly tested missiles with nuclear weapons since the beginning of this year – despite UN bans. The United States and South Korea have resumed large-scale joint military exercises since last year.

Materials for making atomic bombs
The older reactor in Yongbyon has been operational since July 2021, according to 38 North. With its power, the reactor is small, but it can provide plutonium for the production of nuclear bombs. According to the report, the release of water around the light water reactor was observed in early March. That could be related to testing the cooling system. While not the first time in recent years, this time could indicate that the “reactor is nearing completion,” it said.

The intent behind the construction work in the area of ​​the uranium enrichment plant could be to expand uranium conversion capacity, it was said. During this process, the enrichment gas uranium hexafluoride (UF6) is created. In highly enriched form, uranium can also be used to make nuclear bombs.