North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed major weapons tests, including an upgraded rocket launcher and ballistic missiles, and called for bolstering the military's offensive posture. The tests are seen as aimed at enhancing strike capabilities against South Korea and U.S. military bases.
The tests and Kim's rhetoric underscore North Korea's continued focus on advancing its military capabilities and maintaining a confrontational stance towards South Korea and the United States, potentially increasing regional tensions.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed major weapons tests, including an upgraded multiple rocket launch system and tactical ballistic missiles, and called for bolstering the military’s “deadly and destructive offensive posture,” state media reported Friday. The tests, conducted on Thursday, are seen as part of Kim’s push to strengthen both nuclear and conventional military capabilities and to demonstrate targeting capabilities in South Korea, including U.S. military bases.
According to the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the tests evaluated the power of a “special mission” warhead for a tactical ballistic missile, an upgraded multiple rocket launch system, and the hit accuracy of shells with an extended firing range for a self-propelled gun-howitzer. Kim stated that the results proved technological progress and a change in fire posture for southern border areas.
Kim emphasized that North Korea’s self-defense policy includes strengthening a “deadly and destructive offensive posture to make no enemy dare to confront,” adding that making enemies feel “constant uneasiness and fear” is an important aspect of war deterrence. This development follows North Korea’s commissioning of its first naval destroyer, the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon, earlier this week.
Kim has focused on expanding his nuclear and missile arsenals since his diplomacy with U.S. President Donald Trump collapsed in 2019, while also underscoring the need for sophisticated conventional weapons. He has adopted a harsher stance on South Korea, calling it his country’s “principal enemy,” and has increased military structures along the border. Kim has also expanded ties with Russia, supporting its war in Ukraine, and recently met with Chinese President Xi Jinping.