North Korean 5,000-ton destroyer capsizes during launch (X @osc_london)
A new 5,000-ton North Korean destroyer capsized and partially sank during its launch at a shipyard in the city of Chongjin on May 21.
Satellite images show the vessel leaning to the starboard side and partially submerged, with its hull covered by tarps. According to the state agency KCNA, the mishap was caused by improper handling of the launch supports, which led to the premature detachment of the stern, resulting in the vessel running aground and sustaining structural damage.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, who attended the ceremony, called the accident a “criminal act” caused by “total negligence” and demanded the immediate restoration of the ship before the plenary meeting of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party, scheduled for June.
Kim stated that repairing the destroyer is a crucial political matter directly tied to the country’s image and authority.
This destroyer belongs to the same class as the Choe Hyong (or Choi Hyun-ho) ship launched the previous month, capable of carrying ballistic and cruise missiles, including nuclear weapons. The project is part of North Korea’s largest naval expansion in recent years, aiming to extend the range and offensive power of its navy in response to what Kim considers threats from the United States and regional allies.
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Source: Militarnyi / Daily Mail | Photo: X @osc_london | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
