Geneva: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has overseen tests of strategic cruise missiles and other weapons from a new 5,000-ton naval destroyer, ordering the warship to be commissioned into the Navy within two months, state media reported Sunday.
According to Qatar News Agency, Kim observed tests of cruise missiles, naval artillery, automatic guns, and electronic warfare means from the destroyer Kang Kon on Friday. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) detailed that the tests were part of North Korea's ongoing efforts to enhance its naval capabilities.
In June last year, North Korea launched the destroyer Kang Kon, about one month after it had tipped over during its initial launch attempt. This development signifies a significant milestone in the country's naval advancements, following the initial setback during the warship's launch.
The South Korean military reported Sunday that it detected the North's firing of cruise weapons from the warship toward the East Sea on Friday. Both Seoul and Washington are currently analyzing the specifics of these tests, seeking to understand the potential implications for regional security.
The North's leader emphasized the need for accelerating efforts to expand the country's war deterrent and capability to fight a war, highlighting the strategic importance of the new naval destroyer in achieving these military objectives.