North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared intentions to hasten the development of a nuclear-capable naval fleet and revealed plans for creating undisclosed underwater weaponry before the upcoming visit of Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Kim made these statements while aboard a 5,000-ton naval destroyer, accompanied by his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who is speculated to be his potential successor.
Emphasizing the need for rapid enhancement of naval capabilities to strengthen the country’s nuclear deterrence, Kim highlighted the importance of having forces capable of delivering decisive blows underwater or on the water at any given moment. This announcement was part of a new five-year defense strategy that includes constructing larger 10,000-ton-class destroyers and developing mysterious underwater weapons.
During Kim’s visit, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not report any direct comments regarding Washington or Seoul, amid ongoing tensions over North Korea’s nuclear aspirations and diplomatic standstill. The news of Xi’s upcoming visit to North Korea was confirmed by both North Korean and Chinese state media, indicating China’s efforts to bolster relations with its nuclear-armed neighbor.
In recent times, Kim has been focusing on enhancing ties with Russia, demonstrated by sending troops and military equipment to support Russia’s involvement in Ukraine. The announcement of Xi’s visit followed North Korea’s unveiling of a new uranium-enrichment facility for nuclear fuel production, signaling Kim’s commitment to expanding the country’s nuclear capabilities before Xi’s arrival.
The second of two destroyers revealed by North Korea last year, Kang Kon, was introduced to enhance the operational range and preemptive strike capabilities of North Korea’s nuclear-armed military. These ships are designed to carry various weapon systems, including anti-aircraft and anti-ship weapons, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles, although some experts have raised doubts about their effectiveness in active duty.
Kang Kon faced damage during a failed launching ceremony last year but was repaired and relaunched in June, although doubts remain about its full operational readiness. Kim has expressed plans to construct two additional 5,000-ton-class destroyers to further strengthen North Korea’s naval capabilities.