Is North Korea accelerating its naval ambitions?
Fresh weapons tests suggest Pyongyang is determined to strengthen what leader Kim Jong Un has long described as the military’s weakest link.
Kim Jong Un has long described it as the military’s weakest link.
According to state media, Kim personally observed the test-firing of a strategic cruise missile aboard the newly built Kang Kon destroyer.
He also inspected the anti-ship, anti-submarine, and air defence systems aboard the destroyer.
The trials also evaluated the warship’s radar, fire-control systems, naval guns, automatic cannons, and electronic warfare equipment.
After watching the demonstrations, Kim praised what he called recent progress in weapons development.
Kim Accelerates Warship Expansion
He urged officials to further expand the country’s war deterrence and combat capabilities.
He also ordered the Kang Kon to complete its remaining trials and officially enter naval service within the next two months.
The tests are part of North Korea’s broader naval modernisation campaign.
Last month, Pyongyang commissioned the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon destroyer.
It also announced plans to build two warships of the same class every year, alongside future 10,000-ton vessels.
The timing is notable because the Kang Kon had to be repaired after partially capsizing during its launch last year—a setback that briefly embarrassed the programme.
With bigger warships and more missile tests, North Korea is signaling that its navy is no longer content to remain in the shadows. It also has ambitious expansion plans.
