Kim Jong Un oversees combat trials of North Korea’s new destroyer

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw tests of the combat systems aboard the new destroyer Kang Kon, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reports.

The tests, conducted on July 3, included launches of strategic cruise missiles as well as evaluations of deck-mounted artillery systems, automatic cannons and electronic warfare capabilities.

The exercises were carried out to assess the ship’s firepower and combat effectiveness under conditions designed to simulate real operational scenarios.

Kim said the inspection covered the destroyer’s anti-ship, anti-submarine, anti-aircraft and strike systems, along with its integrated fire-control system.

Following the inspection, the North Korean leader outlined phased objectives for the development of various surface and underwater combat systems and their deployment in operational waters, in line with the ruling party’s strategy to strengthen national defense.

He also called for accelerating efforts to maintain and expand what he described as a credible deterrence capability.

By Jeyhun Aghazada