[A submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) is launched from 3,000 ton class Dosan Ahn Chang-ho submarine during its test at an undisclosed location in this handout picture provided by the Defense Ministry, September 15, 2021. (Photo by=The Defense Ministry/Handout via REUTERS)]

WASHINGTON: New satellite imagery of Sinpo South Shipyard has shown "unusual movement" of North Korea's experimental ballistic missile submarine that may indicate a possible submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test in the future, a U.S. monitor said Wednesday.
 
"Satellite image collected on March 22 shows unusual movement of the 8.24 Yongung (August 24th Hero) experimental ballistic missile submarine (SSBA) within the secure boat basin," Beyond Parallel, a project of the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies, said in a report released on its website. The U.S. monitor said the submarine was seen moving out from underneath a canopy that usually covers it. "The exact purpose for moving the submarine is unknown, but it is likely related to ongoing modifications, continued repair work, preparations for an upcoming submarine-launched ballistic missile SLBM test, a component of a strategic deception plan, or a combination of these and other reasons," it said. "The 8.24 Yongung plays a critical role in the under-way development of SLBMs, ballistic missile submarine technology, and operational procedures. It is also an indispensable tool for the hands-on training of new submariners," it added.
 
North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) last week, marking its first ICBM launch in over four years since November 2017.