North Korea launches construction of third Choe Hyon-class destroyer Completion aimed for October 2026

North Korea has officially commenced the construction of its third Choe Hyon-class destroyer at the strategic Nampho Shipyard, signalling a bold advance in its naval military power.

Workers and officials have pledged unwavering determination to complete the warship by 10 October 2026, reinforcing Pyongyang’s ambition to rapidly build a formidable maritime force, Caliber.Az reports, citing DPRK media output.

On July 21, a high-profile meeting brought together shipyard personnel, senior officials including Jo Chun Ryong, secretary of the Workers’ Party Central Committee, and industry experts to declare the start of this critical military project. 

The Nampho Shipyard, a key stronghold of North Korea’s warship-building industry, has earned its reputation through its tradition of self-reliance and cutting-edge naval engineering.

Yun Chi Gol, the shipyard manager, proudly recounted the historic achievement of constructing the first multi-mission destroyer, a symbol of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s revolutionary strength and technological progress.

He credited Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un’s direct guidance and relentless strategic vision, which inspired workers to overcome immense challenges and turn ambition into reality.

The workers’ steely resolve to transform impossibility into victory was underlined by calls for a fierce ideological offensive and precise operational command. Technicians and skilled workers were urged to push the boundaries of innovation and maintain relentless momentum throughout the production process.

The meeting concluded with a solemn oath to accelerate the construction of Choe Hyon-class Destroyer No. 3, embodying the iron will to defend North Korea’s maritime sovereignty and national interests. A pledge letter was adopted, reaffirming absolute loyalty to Kim Jong Un and the unyielding commitment to build a cutting-edge naval weapon that will assert the DPRK’s dominance on the seas.

As the first steel was laid down, the workers of Nampho Shipyard launched a decisive step forward in strengthening the country’s naval strike capabilities, marking a powerful message to regional and global powers: North Korea is rapidly advancing its status as a dominant maritime military force.

By Aghakazim Guliyev