North Korea to Build Giant Warships, Citing Military Gaps

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un personally attended a test launch of a strategic cruise missile aboard the newly built naval destroyer Kang Kon. Friday's tests focused on a comprehensive evaluation of the ship's combat systems, including anti-ship, anti-submarine and air defense capabilities.

The military also tested target detection capabilities, integrated fire control systems, automatic cannons and electronic warfare equipment.

Kim praised progress in weapons development and called for further strengthening of North Korea's military deterrence capabilities. He also ordered that all remaining tests of the destroyer be completed so that the vessel could enter active naval service within two months. This marks an important step, as the ship had to be repaired last year after it partially capsized during its ceremonial launch.

Late last month, North Korea commissioned the 5,000-metric-ton destroyer Choe Hyon, of the same class. As part of an ambitious fleet modernization program, Pyongyang plans to build two such ships per year over the next five years and, in the longer term, to design giant vessels with a displacement of 10,000 metric tons.

Kim has long emphasized the development of the navy, which he has described as the weakest component of North Korea's armed forces.

(Reuters, Max)