Kim Jong Un observed a joint tactical training exercise of infantry and tank units. North Korea stated that this drill was conducted to demonstrate its ability to carry out offensive operations focused on surprise breakthroughs and occupations, which analysts interpret as rehearsal for potential surprise attacks and seizures against South Korea.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Friday that Kim visited the Pyongyang No. 60 training base, under the direct command of the Korean People’s Army’s capital defense corps, on Thursday to observe cooperative attack tactical exercises of infantry and tank units.
The paper noted that the exercise aimed to strike, raid, and occupy enemy anti-armor defense lines, while honing the tactical units’ coordination and combat methods through combined tank and infantry assaults. This suggests the training focused on breaching the demilitarized zone (DMZ) and capturing key frontline positions.
The drill involved a company from the cavalry regiment, a main armored unit of the General Staff’s reserve operations group, along with special operations forces. Notably, North Korea deployed attack drones in this exercise.
According to the newspaper, various unmanned attack aircraft struck enemy command centers and anti-armor positions based on real-time reconnaissance data, while armored vehicles simultaneously launched missiles at targets. It added that rear attack units then ambushed and destroyed enemy drones and helicopters before raiding and occupying anti-armor defense lines and firing positions, setting the stage for a tank and infantry assault. The exercise culminated in a show of force by the cavalry regiment’s tank company, equipped with new main battle tanks. This indicates that the drill simulated neutralizing South Korean positions through drone reconnaissance and strikes, followed by an armored breakthrough of defensive lines.
Kim highlighted that the tanks used in this exercise were new models that took seven years to develop, showcasing their various capabilities.
He stated that every component of the tank had been significantly improved, citing advancements in armor structure, propulsion systems, remote integrated automated fire control systems, electronic warfare suites, guided missiles, and active protection systems. This suggests North Korea has enhanced both the defensive and offensive capabilities of its new tanks, increasing their battlefield survivability. Kim expressed satisfaction, claiming that there are no tanks globally that can match its firepower, mobility, and especially protection, and declared that their military would be equipped with the most formidable tanks.
North Korea revealed last May that it was developing new tanks, and it appears that development has concluded with these tanks now deployed to major units.
Kim asserted that these superior new tanks will be widely fielded in the army, emphasizing the need for continuous performance upgrades to maintain battlefield superiority.
He praised the transformation of all training into scientific, practical, and realistic formats, stating it should lead to significant achievements in war preparedness. However, he made no direct statements regarding South Korea.
Kim’s daughter, Ju-ae, accompanied him during the exercise. She has recently been present at military factory inspections, weapons tests, and firing demonstrations, indicating her growing involvement in her father’s military activities.
Additionally, it was officially confirmed that Kim Sung-ki, a relatively unknown figure, has been appointed as the new chief of the General Political Bureau of the North Korean military. Kim Sung-ki appears to have been appointed during the 9th Party Congress held in late February. The previous chief, Jong Kyung-taek, has reportedly transitioned to a role as a party secretary and department head.