North Korea conducts nuclear strike drills under Kim Jong Un PHOTO

North Korea carried out a large-scale joint striking drill involving tactical nuclear-capable missile systems and long-range artillery units on May 8, in what it described as a direct response to ongoing US-led military drills near the Korean Peninsula. 

The operation was overseen by leader Kim Jong Un, who was accompanied by senior officials from the Workers’ Party of Korea and key figures in the DPRK’s missile and defence sciences sectors, including Pak Jong Chon, Jo Chun Ryong, Kim Jong Sik, and Jang Chang Ha, Caliber.Az reports via North Korean media. 

The Korean People’s Army (KPA) deployed 600mm multiple rocket launchers and Hwasongpho-11 Ka tactical ballistic missiles in the drill, which was aimed at testing the rapid nuclear counterstrike readiness of frontline units. According to state media, the exercise was conducted under the guidance of the national combined nuclear weapons management system and verified the reliability of North Korea’s command and mobilisation protocols in the event of a nuclear crisis.

Before launching, all systems underwent thorough operational inspections, particularly the Haekpangasoe system, which plays a central role in the DPRK’s nuclear command infrastructure. Sub-units conducted detailed training drills, including special lectures for commanding officers, aimed at ensuring a seamless transition into nuclear combat readiness.

The missile and artillery units then executed coordinated strikes—simultaneously and in sequence—targeting simulated enemy positions at varying ranges and directions. The drill achieved all of its objectives and reaffirmed the DPRK's ability to execute a nuclear response on short notice, the media writes. 

Stressing the need to steadily enhance the pivotal role of the nuclear forces in all aspects of the strategies to deter war and fight it, the North Korean leader said that “it is very important to constantly perfect the regular combat readiness of the nuclear forces”.

By Sabina Mammadli