Kim Jong Un Calls for Major Expansion of North Korean Naval Forces

North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong Un, emphasized a significant increase in the country’s naval capabilities. He proposed building two large warships annually for the upcoming five years.

Plans for New Warships

In a ceremony for introducing a new destroyer, Kim highlighted the need to develop vessels similar in size to the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class each year, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Kim celebrated the deployment of the new destroyer in Nampho port. This vessel had undergone military operational evaluations successfully over the past 14 months.

Recent Naval Developments

In April, Kim observed the launch of both cruise and anti-ship missiles from the new destroyer. The vessel, known as Choe Hyon, fired two cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles.

Kim has praised the Choe Hyon’s development as a critical move for enhancing North Korea’s military reach and strike capabilities.

Nuclearization and Future Naval Goals

The nuclearization of the navy is progressing, contributing to the nation’s nuclear deterrence efforts. This naval enhancement seeks to bolster what analysts consider a less powerful branch of North Korea’s military.

Plans include deploying another 5,000-ton destroyer, the Kang Kon, and larger 10,000-ton warships. The Kang Kon, initially introduced in May last year, had issues during a launch but was repaired and relaunched.

“North Korea’s navy will evolve into something incredible,” stated Kim.

Modernization Efforts

Kim stressed the urgent necessity of establishing a modern naval base. State media indicated that Kim is also assessing plans for constructing new naval bases.

During a Workers’ Party’s Central Committee meeting, Kim mentioned upcoming changes in the navy’s role and scope. However, specifics on these changes were not disclosed.