North Korea commissions new 5,000-ton destroyer, Kim vows naval nuclear armament

North Korea has officially commissioned its new 5,000-ton class destroyer, the 'Chosun Ilbo', into active service. The ceremony, attended by leader Kim Jong Un, marked a significant step in the nation's naval expansion. Kim declared that the navy, once considered the weakest branch, has transformed into a force with "unimaginable" combat power.

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Our ship has achieved satisfactory results, possessing the most perfect and comprehensive operational combat capabilities.

During his address, Kim emphasized the strategic importance of naval nuclear armament, stating, "The nuclear armament of the navy is precisely following its course." He asserted that the era of the navy solely existing for coastal defense is over, and it is now evolving into a strategic force. This expansion signals an intention to project power beyond its immediate waters, potentially in coordination with China and Russia.

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It has changed now. The combat power of our navy will become a wonder that transcends imagination.

North Korea also revealed concrete plans for naval development, including the construction of two large surface ships annually for the next five years, such as 10,000-ton class cruisers. The country also plans to build frigates, special purpose vessels, and develop underwater weapon systems. Kim noted the need for modern naval bases to accommodate these new vessels, a decision recently made by the Workers' Party's central committee.

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The era when the navy existed as a force for coastal defense is now clearly in the past. The navy is proudly growing into a military branch equipped with strategic means, and the nuclear armament of the navy is precisely following its course.

Experts suggest that while North Korea emphasizes its indigenous shipbuilding capabilities, certain systems on the 'Chosun Ilbo', like its close-in weapon system, bear resemblance to Russian technology, hinting at possible foreign assistance. The 'Ganggeonho', another large warship that experienced a grounding, is also expected to be deployed soon, with plans for more 10,000-ton class vessels to follow.

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We must accurately execute all plans concerning naval power construction, including building two ships of the 'Choe Hyon' class or larger annually for the next five years, including 10,000-ton class cruisers, and developing and producing underwater weapon systems.