North Korea has reportedly repaired and relaunched a new 5,000-ton naval destroyer just a month after it embarrassingly capsized. This news comes from the South Korean Central News Agency, highlighting that the destroyer—only the second one constructed this year—returned to the water on Thursday.
During a launch event on the eastern coast, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un indicated that these new battleships serve as clear evidence of the swift modernization of the country’s navy. He stated, “We have witnessed the launch of another new type of destroyer within two months of similar events at the Nampo Shipyard, so we shouldn’t doubt the rapid transformation of the navy.”
Kim reiterated his stance on bolstering North Korea’s naval capabilities, asserting that it’s a response to what he perceives as threats from the US and its allies in Asia.
He claimed, “The ultra-violent growth in our naval operational capabilities is now proven not by prediction or possibility but by powerful entities, marking a strong and unstoppable course of history.” This follows an earlier incident where the launch was described as a major failure, leading to the detention of four officials, including a deputy director involved in munitions.
In addition to the destroyer’s launch, Kim has been visiting military factories nationwide, urging the enhancement of shell production to meet modern warfare demands. He noted, “On Friday, we provided guidance at key ammunition industry companies and gained insights into shell production, capacity expansion, and modernization projects slated for early 2025.”
Moreover, he expressed satisfaction with the dedication shown by corporate workers, stating that boosting production will help develop strong new types of shells that align with the national defense strategy and modern warfare requirements.
