BICOM

An article in the respected German newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung this week said that North Korea has supplied Iran with a computer program that could help Teheran in the construction of a nuclear weapon. The paper contended that earlier this year, Pyongyang delivered to Iran a software system that could simulate neutron flows. This would aid calculations vital in the development of nuclear reactors, and also nuclear weapons. The program, called Monte Carlo N-Particle Extended, or MCNPX 2.6.0, is used extensively for civilian purposes, but is subject to strict controls because of its dual use potential.

This latest revelation will add to the widespread suspicions concerning the role being played by North Korea in the Middle East. In addition to the suspicions regarding help with nuclear development, North Korea has been extensively involved with Iran’s missile programme. Pyongyang also sells weapons to Syria, and is suspected of offering aid and training to the Lebanese Hezbollah organisation. Pyongyang’s motivation in this activity is its need for hard currency.