North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced plans to significantly expand the country’s naval capabilities by constructing two large warships annually over the next five years.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a substantial enhancement of the nation’s naval forces, proposing the construction of two large warships each year for the next five years. This directive was issued during a commissioning ceremony for a new destroyer at the port of Nampho.
According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim emphasized that the new vessels should be comparable in size to the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer. The ceremony marked the deployment of this multipurpose destroyer, which has recently completed military operational tests over the past 14 months.
In April, Kim observed the successful launch of two cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles from the Choe Hyon-class vessel, underscoring its operational capabilities. The development of this destroyer has been hailed by Kim as a significant advancement in expanding North Korea’s military reach and enhancing its preemptive strike capabilities.
Kim’s remarks also highlighted the ongoing efforts to nuclearize the navy, which he stated is “advancing along its own course.” This initiative is seen as a crucial component of North Korea’s broader nuclear deterrence strategy.
The push for naval expansion comes as analysts have long regarded North Korea’s navy as one of the weaker branches of its military. In light of this, Kim is aiming to bolster its capabilities to ensure a more formidable maritime presence.
KCNA reported that Kim plans to deploy another 5,000-ton destroyer, the Kang Kon, alongside larger 10,000-ton strategic warships. The Kang Kon was initially unveiled in May of last year but faced setbacks due to damage sustained during a failed launch at the northern port city of Chongjin. After undergoing repairs, the vessel has since been relaunched.
Kim expressed his ambition for North Korea’s navy, stating that by adding new capabilities, it would become “something incredible beyond imagination.” He underscored the urgency of modernizing naval infrastructure, describing the establishment of a modernized naval base as a “desperate and essential task.”
Additionally, state media reported that Kim is reviewing plans to construct new naval bases, further indicating a commitment to enhancing naval operations. During a recent meeting of the Workers’ Party’s Central Committee, Kim discussed the need for changes to the navy’s status, role, and scope of operations, although he did not provide specific details on what those changes would entail.
This ambitious naval expansion plan reflects Kim’s broader strategy to strengthen North Korea’s military capabilities amid ongoing tensions in the region.
According to Fox News, Kim’s announcements signal a significant shift in North Korea’s military focus, particularly in bolstering its naval forces.