SEOUL, July 5 (Reuters) – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently oversaw the test firing of a strategic cruise missile along with evaluations of various defense systems on the naval destroyer Kang Kon, according to state media KCNA.
These tests took place on Friday as part of an effort to assess the combat systems of the newly built warship. The evaluations included testing target detection and information processing abilities, integrated firepower systems, naval guns, automatic cannons, and electronic warfare equipment, KCNA reported.
Kim received a briefing on the ship’s weapon systems before witnessing the launch of the strategic cruise missile and other tests, as noted in the report.
KCNA mentioned that Kim praised the recent progress in weapons development and urged further efforts to strengthen North Korea's deterrent and combat capabilities.
He instructed officials to complete tests of the Kang Kon and to officially commission the destroyer into naval service within two months, as stated by KCNA.
Last month, North Korea commissioned the 5,000-ton destroyer Choe Hyon and announced plans to deploy the Kang Kon, which is of the same class, as part of a broader initiative to modernize its navy.
Kim has called for the construction of two new warships of this class every year for the next five years and has also outlined plans to build larger 10,000-ton vessels.
The Kang Kon was repaired last year after it partially capsized during a launch ceremony.
North Korea has put increasing emphasis on naval development as it aims to strengthen what Kim has referred to as the weakest part of its military.