Kim Jong Un oversees naval cruise missile test, signals push to strengthen nuclear forces

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the test-firing of strategic cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles from a naval destroyer, state media reported, marking the latest in a series of weapons tests by the nuclear-armed country.

According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the tests were conducted on April 12 from a 5,000-tonne-class destroyer, identified as the Choe Hyon. The launch included two strategic cruise missiles and multiple anti-ship missiles, all of which reportedly followed pre-set trajectories and accurately hit their targets.

The cruise missiles remained in flight for over two hours, while the anti-ship missiles flew for around 30 minutes before striking their targets, indicating extended operational range and precision.

The test was carried out to assess the operational performance of the destroyer’s integrated weapons systems, train launch crews, and verify improvements in navigation and targeting capabilities.

Images released by state media showed Kim observing the launches alongside senior military officials and naval commanders. Following the test, he reiterated that strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrent remains a top priority and called for enhancing strategic strike capabilities and rapid-response readiness.

The Choe Hyon, which entered service recently, is part of North Korea’s effort to expand its naval power and extend its military reach beyond land-based missile systems. The warship is believed to be capable of carrying a range of weapons, including nuclear-capable missiles.

Kim also reviewed plans for additional destroyers currently under construction, signalling a broader push to build a more advanced naval fleet.

The missile tests come amid ongoing tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea continuing to advance its weapons programmes following stalled diplomatic engagement with the United States and South Korea.

Recent months have seen multiple missile launches by Pyongyang, reflecting a sustained effort to enhance its military capabilities and reinforce its deterrence posture.