North Korea tests key weapons on Korean War anniversary, Kim vows to update long-range strike capabilities

North Korea marked the anniversary of the Korean War with a significant display of its military modernization efforts. State media reported on June 26 that leader Kim Jong Un observed tests of crucial new weapons systems, including an upgraded 240mm multiple rocket launcher, tactical ballistic missiles, and extended-range shells for 155mm self-propelled howitzers.

“

The tests... demonstrated and confirmed the great technological progress achieved in realizing our party's policy on the change of firepower posture of the southern border and the realization of the three principles of automation, long-range strike and super-precision.

The tests, conducted on June 25, were framed as part of the country's five-year plan for defense development. The improved 240mm system, described as a corps-level firepower asset, now features automated elements and an increased range of 90 kilometers. The tactical ballistic missiles are designed for "critical destruction" of enemy targets like airfields and ports, signaling a focus on striking key southern facilities.

Kim Jong Un highlighted the tests as proof of "great technological progress" in achieving the party's goals for modernizing firepower along the southern border, emphasizing principles of automation, long-range capability, and precision. He asserted that in the current international climate, strengthening defense is an "indispensable national strategic priority." The leader also stated that North Korea's self-defense policy is not merely about enhancing defensive capabilities but about developing "lethal and destructive offensive posture" to deter any adversary.

“

The current international situation, where national sovereignty and survival itself can only be protected by absolute strength, makes it unnecessary to add any rhetorical explanations as to why the strengthening of our defense capabilities is an indispensable national and primary strategic task.

"The fact that enemies are in constant anxiety and fear is itself an important aspect of exercising deterrence," Kim reportedly said, vowing to ensure adversaries are aware of North Korea's fully updated long-range strike capabilities in the shortest possible time. The report also listed several high-ranking officials who accompanied Kim during the weapons demonstrations.

“

We will make the enemies know, in the shortest possible period, that all of our country's long-range strike means have been replaced by new ones.