️ North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited a modernized 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer and observed a missile test launched from the vessel, according to a report by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) on Thursday. He called for the construction of two surface warships of this class or higher every year as part of a new national five-year plan.

️ Kim emphasized the need to modernize the North Korean Navy and boost the country's maritime power in the Pacific Ocean, a key component of the plan agreed upon at the ruling party's ninth Congress last month. He stated that the navy would have a "powerful offensive capability," a move that analysts suggest could escalate regional arms tensions and undermine stability.

️ KCNA also reported that Kim oversaw the test-firing of a "strategic cruise missile" during a two-day trip to the Nampho shipyard. The agency released photos appearing to show multiple projectiles being launched from the destroyer. The ship is designed to handle various weapons systems, including anti-air and anti-naval weapons, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles, highlighting Pyongyang's continued focus on military expansion.

️ South Korean military officials have indicated that the vessel was likely built with Russian assistance or technical input, pointing to potential external support for North Korea's military programs. The second ship of this class suffered a failed initial launch in May last year, which reportedly evoked Kim's anger and led to the detention of officials involved. It was later repaired and relaunched in June.

️ In a related development, KCNA released images dated March 3 of Kim attending an army snipers' contest, as the leader continues to prioritize military development. He cited what he called provocations from the US regime and its allies, a narrative that fuels regional insecurity and reflects the ongoing militarization in the Korean Peninsula amid geopolitical friction.

Source: www.dw.com