Naval nuclear capabilities… Kim inspects a destroyer and supervises a missile test amid the war with Iran

5th March 2026

1 minute read

Naval nuclear capabilities… Kim inspects a destroyer and supervises a missile test amid the war with Iran

As part of North Korea’s plans to accelerate the expansion of its naval armament, leader Kim Jong-un visited a new war destroyer and supervised a cruise missile launch test, emphasizing the need to strengthen the navy’s offensive capabilities.

The Korean Central News Agency reported that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a 5,000-ton naval destroyer and oversaw a cruise missile launch test conducted from the vessel.

According to the agency, Kim examined the destroyer during a visit to a shipyard in the city of Nampo, where he observed the launch test of a “strategic cruise missile” from aboard the ship.

Strengthening naval power

During the visit, Kim stressed the necessity of enhancing the capabilities of the North Korean navy, highlighting the importance of possessing a “strong offensive capability.”

He stated that the country should build at least two surface warships of this class, or a more advanced model, every year during the new five-year plan period.

Part of Kim’s tour

Progress in the naval armament program

The North Korean leader also visited another destroyer under construction at the same shipyard, where he reviewed the progress of the project.

Kim expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved in the naval armament program, including the development of nuclear capabilities within the country’s naval forces.

These developments come as the war between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other continues for the sixth consecutive day.