North Korea announced Wednesday that it had conducted performance checks on its weapon systems, including test-firing cruise missiles mounted on the destroyer Choe Hyon, which was first unveiled on April 26.
The state-run newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Monday that, with Kim Jong Un present, the Missile General Bureau, the Academy of National Defense Science, and the Detection and Electronic Warfare Bureau began testing the performance and combat applicability of weapon systems installed on the new multi-purpose destroyer Choe Hyon.
The newspaper detailed that test launches of supersonic, strategic, and anti-aircraft missiles were conducted, along with test firings of the 127mm shipboard automatic cannon.
Kim personally reviewed the schedule and content of the weapon system tests and observed the cruise missile test launches.
The newspaper reported that Kim praised the shipboard firepower system, stating that their unique system, which effectively combines the most powerful strike capabilities with conventional defensive measures, is truly excellent. He emphasized the need to strictly advance the shipboard weapon system project as planned to integrate and operationalize the ship’s weapon systems rapidly.
Kim further stressed the importance of establishing a proactive, offensive defense system based on strong attack capabilities. He outlined a major task for the shipbuilding sector to continuously enhance the equipment level of attack and defense composite systems, incorporating next-generation technologies to achieve higher levels of multi-purpose functionality for naval vessels.
The newspaper also noted that Kim stated it was time to make responsible decisions to accelerate the navy’s nuclear armament to defend against current and future threats and protect maritime sovereignty. While he presented various tasks to achieve this goal, specific details were not disclosed.
Rodong Sinmun also reported that on Tuesday, test firings of ship-to-ship tactical guided weapons, various shipboard automatic cannons, and smoke and electronic countermeasure devices were conducted.
On April 26, Rodong Sinmun unveiled a newly constructed 5,000-ton destroyer. The newspaper stated that the new vessel was built following an order signed by Kim Jong Un from the Central Military Commission and classified as the Choe Hyun class, named after the founding figure Choe Hyun.
After observing the test launches, Kim met with workers, scientists, and engineers at the Nampo Shipyard on Tuesday to offer encouragement and take commemorative photos. He remarked that the Nampo Shipyard is central in building a 21st-century maritime power, focusing on revolutionary advancements in shipbuilding and the modernization of naval forces.