OVERVIEW: The DPRK 32cm refers to a North Korean-origin lightweight torpedo with a diameter of approximately 320 mm, reportedly transferred to Iran for integration on smaller naval platforms. It is designed for short-range engagements against surface or sub-surface targets in littoral waters.

DETAILS: The “32cm” designation indicates the torpedo’s caliber (320 mm), placing it in the lightweight class below the standard 533 mm size. North Korea developed this torpedo type for coastal defense and small craft use, and it was reportedly transferred to Iran during the 1980s under bilateral military cooperation agreements. The torpedo uses active/passive acoustic homing and is propelled by an electric motor with a limited range and speed suitable for small patrol boats and submarines operating in shallow waters. Its warhead is high-explosive, optimized for disabling small or medium-sized vessels.

Iran has incorporated this torpedo aboard certain classes of small submarines and surface craft, including the Ghadir-class midget submarines, for use in confined maritime environments such as the Persian Gulf. There is no confirmed evidence of indigenous production of this exact 32 cm model, though Iran has developed similar systems since.

TYPE: Lightweight, electric, acoustic-homing torpedo

FUNCTION: The torpedo is launched from small submarine or surface platforms and uses active or passive acoustic sensors to detect and home in on targets. It is suited for close-range engagements against small warships, patrol boats, or submarines in coastal or littoral zones.

NOTE:
IOC: 1987 (Iran, imported)
Manufacturer: North Korea (original), modified use in Iran
Operators: Iran
Platforms: Ghadir-class submarine, possible small surface vessels
Conflict used in: No confirmed combat use as of 2025

SOURCE:
IISS Military Balance ; SIPRI Arms Transfers Database: https://armstrade.sipri.org ; UN Panel of Experts Reports on DPRK: https://www.undocs.org/S/2021/777 ; Missile Threat (CSIS): https://missilethreat.csis.org ; 38 North: https://www.38north.org