A satellite image has revealed that the North Korean frigate that rolled over and was partially submerged during its botched launch ceremony last month is now floating on its own. The vessel, identified as a Choi-Hyun class ship, is reportedly moored in the middle of O-Hang harbor, away from the dock where it initially crashed into the water.
According to analysis by Beyond Parallel, a project within the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), North Korea has successfully completed initial salvage operations on the vessel. However, the listing motion and presence of marine salvage balloons suggest that the operation is not yet complete.
The ship’s condition is still unclear due to limited resolution in the image. Analysts speculate that major repairs may be required, but it remains uncertain whether the vessel will remain at the Hambuk Shipyard or be moved to another facility for refurbishment and commissioning.
South Korean officials have confirmed that additional repair work on the ship is underway, although details of the progress are scarce. The North Korean government’s initial estimate was that restoration would take around 10-odd days, but skeptics question whether this goal can be met.
Source: https://www.twz.com/sea/north-korean-frigate-now-floating-after-partially-capsizing-during-disastrous-launch