North Korea speeds up construction of third 5,000-ton destroyer

North Korea appears to be accelerating construction of its third 5,000-ton Choe Hyun-class destroyer as part of a broader push to strengthen its naval capabilities, according to a South Korean lawmaker.

Yoo Yong-won, a member of the People Power Party, said Thursday, April 2, that satellite imagery indicates rapid progress on the vessel at a shipyard in Nampho, a western port city. The imagery, captured between March 12 and 28 by US-based satellite intelligence firm Vantor, shows large cranes and crane vessels actively operating near the warship under construction.

According to Yoo, the destroyer appears to be in the later stages of assembly. He noted that heavy cranes are likely being used to install major superstructures, including large structural blocks, radar systems, and weapon components.

Satellite images also revealed developments involving the first Choe Hyun-class destroyer, which was launched in April last year. The vessel appears to be undergoing preparations for deployment. Indicators include visible exhaust emissions suggesting the engine is running, as well as crane activity that may point to the installation of additional weapons systems.

"North Korea appears to be accelerating the modernisation of its navy on the back of military technology assistance from Russia," Yoo said.

The developments follow orders from North Korean leader Kim Jong-un to complete another 5,000-ton multipurpose destroyer in time for the ruling party’s founding anniversary on October 10. Pyongyang had already launched two such warships last year.

Under the country’s naval development plan, North Korea aims to commission up to 12 destroyers of this class by 2032, reflecting a long-term effort to expand and modernise its fleet.

By Tamilla Hasanova