In a recent visit to a 5,000-ton destroyer, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un emphasized the need for the navy to develop a “powerful offensive capability,” according to a report from state media outlet KCNA on Thursday.
Kim has committed to advancing the modernization of North Korea’s naval fleet, aiming to strengthen the country’s maritime influence in the Pacific Ocean. He cited recent actions by the United States and its allies as provocations that spur this development.
Speaking at the Nampho Shipyard, Kim declared, “Each year of the new five-year plan, we must construct two surface warships of this class or a superior class.” This statement aligns with the nation’s new strategic goals set at the ninth Congress.
During his visit, Kim also supervised the launch of a “strategic cruise missile” from the destroyer, as confirmed by KCNA.
Kim’s two-day tour, which took place on Tuesday and Wednesday, included an inspection of the Choe Hyon, the inaugural vessel in a line of 5,000-ton ‘Choe Hyon-class’ destroyers currently being built by North Korea, according to KCNA.
The North Korean leader also reviewed plans for a third destroyer of the same class, which is in the planning stages at the shipyard, KCNA reported.
The second warship of the Choe Hyon-class destroyers suffered a failed initial launch in May 2025, causing Kim’s ire and leading to the detainment of officials involved.
The warship was repaired and launched again in June, according to KCNA.
Kim said he was satisfied with the progress of the nuclear armament of his Navy.
