North Korea Launches New Destroyer To Strengthen Maritime Power

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un guided the test-firing of the land missile into the sea of Padasuri 6, Wednesday, February 14, 2024. (ANTARA/KCNA)

JAKARTA - North Korea has just launched a new destroyer to strengthen its naval fleet, as part of a major strategy to increase the country's maritime power.

The launch ceremony of the 5,000-ton multipurpose destroyer was held on Friday, April 25 at the Nampho shipyard, located on the country's west coast.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un was also present at the ceremony and witnessed firsthand the newly completed warship being built. The ship is named "Choe Hyon," as a tribute to a legendary anti-Japanese warrior.

The destroyer is designed with a variety of modern weapons systems that allow increased capabilities in various defense operations, such as air defenses, anti-ship, anti-submarine, and ballistic anti-missile attacks.

The ship is also equipped with the capability to carry supersonic strategic cruise missiles as well as tactical ballistic missiles, which allow for very precise ground attacks.

In a speech at the ceremony, Kim Jong-un stressed that this destroyer would strengthen North Korea's ability to safeguard their maritime sovereignty and support the country's goal of achieving more advanced maritime forces.

"Having a strong maritime operational force is the most reliable way to deal with military threats proactively, including nuclear threats, as well as dispelling any attempt from foreign powers trying to strengthen their military presence on the peninsula," Kim said.

The ship is expected to be handed over to North Korea's navy early next year, and is seen as an important step in the country's efforts to strengthen its military position in the region.