North Korea has test-fired a strategic cruise missile and several other weapons from a newly built 5,000-ton naval destroyer, with leader Kim Jong Un personally overseeing the tests, according to state media. The drills mark a continued push to expand Pyongyang’s naval combat capabilities.
The tests were carried out from the Kang Kon destroyer on Friday and included cruise missiles, naval artillery, automatic guns, and electronic warfare systems. Kim reportedly ordered that the warship be fully commissioned into active service within two months.
South Korea’s military confirmed it detected cruise missile activity from the vessel and said it is jointly analyzing the details with the United States.
Weapons tests highlight expansion of North Korea’s naval power
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the exercises were designed to verify the ship’s ability to operate multiple weapon systems in combat conditions. The destroyer tested its targeting systems and information-processing capabilities alongside live weapons firing.
The Kang Kon is part of North Korea’s broader effort to strengthen its naval deterrent, including nuclear-capable cruise missiles and advanced anti-air and anti-ship systems. Kim has emphasized the need to rapidly improve combat readiness across the navy.
The vessel is one of several large destroyers being developed as part of a wider military modernization plan aimed at expanding long-range strike capabilities.
Kim Jong Un accelerates push for nuclear-armed navy
Kim Jong Un has increasingly focused on naval expansion after years of prioritizing ballistic missile development. He has also ordered the construction of additional destroyers and advanced submarine programs, including nuclear-powered designs.
The Kang Kon was initially launched last year but was damaged during a failed launch attempt before being repaired and relaunched. Despite questions from outside analysts about its readiness, North Korean state media has presented it as a major step forward.
Officials have also outlined plans to build multiple 5,000-ton destroyers annually and eventually develop larger 10,000-ton warships as part of a long-term military expansion strategy.
