On April 25, the Nampo Shipyard in North Korea held a launching ceremony for the new 5,000-ton destroyer Choi Hyon, designed to join the fleet of the North Korean Navy. The event was attended by leader Kim Jong-un, who delivered a speech emphasizing the strategic importance of the new vessel.
During his speech, Kim announced that the destroyer would be officially handed over to the North Korean Navy and put into service at the beginning of next year. He also revealed that the country plans to intensify the construction of warships, including destroyers, cruisers, and frigates with enhanced combat capabilities, starting in 2026.
Fleet Expansion and Response to Regional Tensions
Kim Jong-un took the opportunity to criticize the joint military activities of the United States and South Korea, labeling them as provocations that seriously threaten the national security of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK). According to the North Korean leader, strengthening the ocean fleet is a necessary response to increase resilience against potential aggressions.
He also stressed that the launch of the destroyer Choi Hyon represents an important symbol of the strengthening of North Korea’s naval forces. The second milestone, according to Kim, will be the construction of nuclear-powered submarines, which are currently under development.
Final Research Phase for New Naval Projects
According to Kim Jong-un, the overall design for the new class of ships — including destroyers, cruisers, and frigates — is in the final phase of research and development. The goal is to equip the North Korean Navy with units featuring greater firepower and the capability to operate in more distant waters, thereby reinforcing its strategic presence in the regional arena.
Source and images: Telegram @china3army. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
