A new North Korean warship is now being tested with weapons designed for longer-range strikes. The country launched two strategic cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles from its new destroyer under Kim Jong Un’s supervision.
The missiles flew along pre-set paths over western waters and struck targets with reported accuracy. The tests form part of efforts to expand naval capabilities and strengthen weapons systems.
The launches took place from the 5,000-ton destroyer Choe Hyon, a newly developed warship in North Korea’s fleet. Cruise missiles can carry conventional or nuclear warheads, while anti-ship missiles are designed to hit targets at sea. Officials said the tests also checked the ship’s integrated weapons command system and crew readiness.
“Our Navy’s forces for attacking from under and above water will grow rapidly. The arming of the Navy with nuclear weapons is making satisfactory progress,” Kim Jong Un, on the development of naval strike capabilities and ongoing weapons expansion.
The missiles flew for more than two hours, while anti-ship missiles remained in flight for over 30 minutes. Reports said they followed precise trajectories before hitting targets, indicating improvements in navigation and accuracy systems.
The tests also aimed to verify resistance to interference, including anti-jamming capabilities.
Meanwhile, Kim reviewed plans for additional destroyers under construction, including third and fourth vessels in the same class. State media described the Choe Hyon as key to expanding operational reach and enabling preemptive strike capability. The warship can carry multiple systems, including anti-air, anti-ship, and nuclear-capable missiles.
In recent years, North Korea has continued testing weapons across land and sea platforms. The country has developed missiles with longer ranges and faster launch readiness.
Officials said the program supports efforts to strengthen nuclear deterrence and improve rapid-response capabilities.
