North Korea conducted a strategic cruise missile test from its 5,000-ton destroyer Choe Hyun Ho on Wednesday, with Kim Jong Un in attendance, signaling a boost to its naval defense capabilities.
The state-run Rodong Sinmun reported on Thursday that Kim visited the destroyer on Tuesday and Wednesday to assess combat readiness and operational capabilities ahead of its commissioning. The paper noted that Kim observed a surface-to-surface strategic cruise missile test launch on Wednesday.
Key officials present included Jo Chun-ryong, Kim Jeong-sik, and Navy Commander Park Kwang-seob, along with shipbuilding sector leaders.
Kim evaluated the crew’s progress in combat training, focusing on mastering the technical skills required for operating the new destroyer.
He assessed the marines’ proficiency in ship operations and weapons systems, while overseeing maneuverability tests.
Kim stated that the new destroyer’s operational tests are proceeding as planned, showcasing the superiority of its design.
He emphasized the need to build two vessels of this class or higher annually during the new five-year plan, stressing the importance of concentrated and sustainable defense economic power.
Kim asserted that the upcoming five-year defense plan would transform their armed forces, establishing robust defense capabilities. He emphasized that North Korea would safeguard its sovereignty through actions, not words.
Observing the missile test, Kim called it crucial for assessing the ship’s capabilities. He praised the crew’s mastery of strategic attacks, framing it as a demonstration of North Korea’s commitment to sovereignty and deterrence.
Kim also reviewed progress on a third Choe Hyun class destroyer at Nampo Shipyard, commending efforts to complete it by the Party’s founding anniversary on October 10.
This new destroyer follows the Choe Hyun Hㅐ and Kang Gun Ho. The Choe Hyun Ho was unveiled at Nampo Shipyard on April 26 last year, while the Kang Gun Ho was launched at Chongjin Shipyard on May 21. The latter was relaunched in June after repairs due to a grounding incident.