On Wednesday, North Korea conducted a strategic cruise missile test from the 5,000-ton destroyer Choe Hyun Ho, with Kim Jong Un, the Supreme Leader, in attendance. This move signals a significant boost to their naval defense capabilities.
The state-run Rodong Sinmun reported on Thursday that Kim visited the destroyer on Tuesday and Wednesday. He assessed the crew’s combat readiness and the ship’s operational capabilities as it prepares for commissioning. The report highlighted that Kim personally observed the surface-to-surface strategic cruise missile launch on Wednesday.
Key officials present included Jo Chun-ryong, Party Central Committee secretary, Kim Jung-sik, first deputy director of the Party Central Committee, and Navy Commander Park Kwang-seop, along with shipbuilding sector representatives.
Kim praised the ship’s marines for their progress in combat training, noting their dedication to mastering the technical skills required to operate the advanced destroyer, as mandated by Party leadership.
The Supreme Leader evaluated the crew’s proficiency in ship operations and weapons systems. A sea trial to assess the destroyer’s maneuverability was conducted under his watchful eye.
Kim stated that the operational tests of this new destroyer, a symbol of the nation’s maritime defense, are proceeding as planned. This further validates the superiority of the ship’s design.
He continued that the goal is to construct two surface vessels of this class or higher annually during the next five-year plan. It must precisely execute the naval fleet expansion strategy. The key to realizing this plan lies in maintaining a focused and sustainable defense economy.
Kim emphasized that as he’s previously stated, the implementation of the defense development plan over the next five years will undoubtedly revolutionize the military structure once again. It will establish an ironclad defense capability. The commitment to protecting the sovereignty will be demonstrated not through rhetoric, but through tangible actions and capabilities. He stressed the importance of enhancing maritime defense capabilities.
Regarding the strategic cruise missile test, Kim deemed it crucial for assessing the destroyer’s combat readiness. He expressed satisfaction with the crew’s proficiency in strategic operations, stating that this demonstration of power clearly reflects the nation’s unwavering resolve to defend its sovereignty. It’s rooted in solid confidence and serves as a responsible exercise of the war deterrence capabilities.
Kim also reviewed progress on the third Choe Hyun class destroyer under construction at Nampo Shipyard. He commended the Navy’s efforts, saying that the team is working with great enthusiasm to complete another Choe Hyun class destroyer by the Party’s founding anniversary on October 10, coinciding with this year’s historic Party Congress.
This newly announced destroyer marks the third in its class, following the Choe Hyun Ho and Kang Gun Ho. North Korea unveiled the 5,000-ton Choe Hyun Ho at Nampo Shipyard on April 26 last year. The second destroyer, Kang Gun Ho, was launched at Chongjin Shipyard on May 21. However, due to a grounding incident, it underwent three weeks of repairs before being relaunched in June.
On Tuesday, Sniper Day, Kim observed a marksmanship competition held by the capital defense corps. He was accompanied by key officials including Jo Yong-won, Kim Jae-ryong, and Ri Il-hwan from the Politburo.
The event aimed to enhance the critical sharpshooting skills of snipers, which are increasingly vital in modern warfare.
The competition took place at the 60th Training Base, featuring elite snipers from special operations units and various combined forces. Results showed the Air Force Special Operations Brigade claiming first place, followed by the 4th Army Corps in second, and the 1st Army Corps in third.
Kim stressed that rapidly advancing our snipers’ capabilities to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare is crucial to implementing the Party’s military modernization strategy.
He added that it’s imperative to regularly organize realistic shooting competitions that foster inter-unit rivalry. This prepares the snipers at all levels to deliver precision strikes against enemies under any conditions – be it weather, time of day, or season. The report indicated that Kim provided comprehensive guidelines for sniper training.