March 5, 2026
By Micah Jonah
North Korean leader, Kim Jong Un has supervised the test-firing of sea-to-surface strategic cruise missiles from a newly built 5,000-tonne naval destroyer, according to state media.
The tests were conducted from the destroyer Choe Hyon on Wednesday ahead of the vessel’s official commissioning. The launch was described by the Korean Central News Agency as a key demonstration of the warship’s combat capability.
Kim reportedly assessed the missile test as a core component of the destroyer’s operational strength and described the vessel as a new symbol of the country’s maritime defence. He also called for the construction of additional warships of similar or improved class.
During a visit to the Nampo Shipyard, Kim said efforts to equip the navy with nuclear weapons were progressing. North Korea typically uses the term “strategic” to suggest potential nuclear capability.
According to KCNA, Kim inspected the Choe Hyon over a two-day visit to the shipyard, where additional vessels of the same class are said to be under construction.
North Korea’s naval modernisation programme experienced a setback in May 2025 when a second destroyer of the same class capsized during a launch ceremony at Chongjin Shipyard. State media later reported that a malfunction in the launch mechanism caused structural damage to the vessel.
The latest missile tests come amid continued emphasis by the North Korean leadership on strengthening military capabilities alongside economic development efforts. Since assuming office in 2011, Kim has prioritised defence expansion while also pledging improvements in living standards.
The development is expected to draw attention from regional observers, particularly South Korea and the United States, given ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
