Kim Jong Un Showcases New Warship, Pushes Nuclear Naval Expansion Ahead Of Xi Visit
North Korea advances naval capabilities and nuclear deterrent strategy.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has inspected a newly repaired 5,000-ton destroyer during sea trials, while calling for a rapid expansion of the country’s naval forces and a stronger nuclear deterrent at sea, according to state media reports on Saturday. The development comes amid heightened regional tensions and ahead of a scheduled visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to Pyongyang.
The vessel, identified as the destroyer Kang Kon, was observed during capability tests after being repaired from damage sustained during a failed launch last year. The incident had previously drawn sharp criticism from Kim, who described the earlier failure as “criminal” and ordered immediate corrective measures. State media said the ship has since been relaunched and tested again as part of its return to service.
During the inspection, Kim called for the “rapid development” of North Korea’s naval forces, stating that they should be capable of delivering a “deadly blow” underwater and on the surface at any time. He emphasised that the navy is central to the country’s evolving military doctrine, particularly its expanding nuclear deterrence strategy.
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According to official reports, Kim outlined plans under a new five-year defence programme to develop larger 10,000-ton-class destroyers and unspecified “underwater secret weapons.” The initiative reflects North Korea’s continued push to modernise its armed forces, even as diplomatic engagement with Western countries remains frozen.
Photographs released by state media showed Kim accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who has increasingly appeared at major public military and state events in recent years. South Korean officials have suggested she may be being positioned for a future leadership role, though this has not been confirmed by Pyongyang.
The naval inspection comes shortly after confirmation that Xi Jinping will visit North Korea next week, signalling renewed high-level engagement between Beijing and Pyongyang. The visit is also taking place after North Korea reportedly unveiled a new uranium enrichment facility, with Kim pledging to expand the country’s nuclear arsenal “at an exponential rate,” underscoring its continued focus on strengthening strategic military capabilities.
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