️ North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of 'strategic cruise missiles' from a new 5,000-tonne naval destroyer prior to its official commissioning, as reported by state media. Kim observed the launch of sea-to-surface missiles from the destroyer Choe Hyon, assessing the test as a 'core' capability of the new warship, which he described as a 'new symbol of sea defence' for the country.

️ Calling for increased production of similar or superior-class warships, Kim claimed that the navy's adoption of nuclear weapons is progressing satisfactorily. He stated, 'Our Navy's forces for attacking from under and above water will grow rapidly. The arming of the Navy with nuclear weapons is making satisfactory progress,' during his visit to the Nampo Shipyard.

️ These missile tests occur against the backdrop of significant challenges in North Korea's naval modernization efforts. In May 2025, a second Choe Hyon-class destroyer capsized during a botched side-launch ceremony at Chongjin Shipyard, an incident witnessed by Kim. In a rare admission of failure, state media reported that a launch mechanism malfunction caused the stern to slide prematurely into the water, crushing parts of the hull and leaving the bow stranded.

️ The recent tests follow Kim's pledge in late February to improve living standards during a rare congress of the ruling Workers' Party. However, North Korea continues to prioritize nuclear weapons development and military strength above all else, citing the need to resist pressure from the United States and its ally, South Korea. This focus on military expansion raises questions about the allocation of resources, potentially undermining efforts to address the country's chronic economic impoverishment and social welfare needs.

Source: www.aljazeera.com