SEOUL, (Reuters): Kim Jong Un oversaw a new round of missile tests as North Korea launched strategic cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles from its naval destroyer “Choe Hyon”, state media KCNA reported.
According to KCNA, two strategic cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles were fired during operational efficiency trials. The tests were aimed at evaluating the warship’s integrated weapons command system, training crews in missile-launch procedures, and verifying the accuracy and anti-jamming capabilities of upgraded navigation systems.
The cruise missiles reportedly remained airborne for between 7,869 and 7,920 seconds, while the anti-ship missiles flew for 1,960 to 1,973 seconds before hitting their targets with what was described as high precision. The launches took place over waters off the country’s western coast.
During the visit, Kim emphasized that strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrent remains a top priority, calling for improvements in both strategic and tactical strike capabilities as well as rapid-response readiness.
KCNA also reported that Kim was briefed on plans to construct two additional destroyers of the Choe Hyon class, indicating preparations for a third and fourth vessel. This marks the first official mention of a fourth destroyer under development.
Pyongyang first conducted weapons tests on the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class warship in April 2025. In June, Kim announced plans to build two additional destroyers in 2026 and to commission two ships annually, either of the same or a more advanced class.
Analysts say the expansion signals a shift toward building a larger, more coordinated naval force. Lim Eul-chul of Kyungnam University noted that referencing multiple destroyers suggests North Korea is accelerating the formation of a destroyer flotilla rather than deploying isolated ships.
Experts also believe the country is speeding up weapons development while taking advantage of global strategic distractions, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East, to advance its nuclear and missile capabilities.
