North Korea has reported that it has successfully salvaged a 5,000-tonne destroyer that sank after a failed launch last month.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un also announced plans to build two more destroyers of this class next year as part of his strategy to strengthen the country’s naval forces.
The second launching ceremony for the Choe Hyon-class destroyer, named Kang Kon, took place on Thursday in the port of Rajin in the north-east of the country, less than a month after reports of a serious accident during the first attempt to launch the ship in May.
During his speech at the ceremony, Kim noted: “Despite the difficulties, our ambitious plans to build a modern navy are being implemented at a rapid pace.”
According to Kim, the warship will be handed over to the navy for operation by mid-2026, and the ruling party has already approved a plan to build two more destroyers of this class next year. He also added: “Soon our enemies will appreciate how unpleasant it is to see enemy ships off their shores.”
In addition, the North Korean leader criticised US actions in the region, which he believes increase the likelihood of nuclear war, and stressed that his armed forces would take “pre-emptive military measures” in response to any provocations. These statements were made against the backdrop of a report from the White House that President Donald Trump is ready for dialogue with Kim.
