North Korea accelerates construction of a new naval base and strengthens military capabilities

Pyongyang announced on Thursday that it would continue developing its military deterrence capabilities at a sustained and accelerating pace, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

North Korea also said it would take concrete action in response to what it described as growing maritime threats from the United States and its allies.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un inspected a naval base under construction, KCNA reported on Thursday, describing it as an “essential project” for strengthening maritime security.

The visit followed his pledge last week to acquire “the most advanced and powerful warships”, as the nuclear-armed country accelerates its naval expansion.

Pyongyang unveiled two 5,000-tonne destroyers in 2025 and is now seeking to develop a 10,000-tonne class.

KCNA said Kim had “provided on-site guidance during construction of a major naval base on the east coast, where work is being accelerated”.

“Building this modern naval base is a fundamental project of the utmost importance, directly connected in every respect to the security of our state and the defence of its maritime sovereignty,” the agency quoted him as saying.

KCNA disclosed no further details about the new base, including its precise location or size.

On Monday, Pyongyang conducted a new test of torpedoes intended for its naval forces, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2027.