North Korea tests two new missile systems, KCNA reports PHOTO

North Korea has conducted tests of two new missile systems, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and other senior officials observed the tests.

According to KCNA, the trials were used to assess the power of a tactical ballistic missile warhead, the reliability of a high-precision autonomous navigation system for an extended-range 240-mm guided rocket system, and the accuracy of a tactical cruise missile reportedly equipped with artificial intelligence-based targeting technology.

The agency also said the tests evaluated the precision strike capability of a tactical cruise missile, which Kim Jong Un reportedly placed special emphasis on. The missile is expected to be deployed with long-range artillery brigades stationed near the border with South Korea.

KCNA claimed the system features terminal guidance based on AI technology, combining autonomous navigation with terrain-matching systems to enable precision strikes at ranges of up to 100 km.

“Building the most modern and powerful artillery forces unmatched by anyone is a political direction we prioritise in strengthening our armed forces,” Kim Jong Un said, according to KCNA.

He added that possessing such capabilities serves as a deterrent, saying it would “cause extreme fear and anxiety among enemies” and represents an important element of war deterrence strategy.