North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has declared his intention to hasten the development of a nuclear-powered naval fleet and revealed plans to create ‘covert underwater armaments’ before the upcoming visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Kim made these statements aboard a 5,000-ton naval destroyer on Thursday, accompanied by his teenage daughter, Kim Ju Ae, who is speculated by South Korean officials to be his potential successor.
Emphasizing the need for the swift advancement of naval forces with a greater role in the nation’s nuclear deterrence, Kim expressed the capability to strike the enemy swiftly either underwater or on the water. He also outlined a new five-year defense strategy that involves constructing larger 10,000-ton-class destroyers and developing undisclosed “secret underwater weapons.”
The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) did not report any direct comments by Kim regarding Washington or Seoul during his visit, amidst the ongoing tensions over North Korea’s nuclear ambitions and diplomatic standstill.
The announcement coincided with the confirmation of Xi’s visit to North Korea on Monday, highlighting China’s efforts to strengthen relations with its nuclear-armed neighbor.
In recent times, Kim has focused on fostering ties with Russia, notably by providing troops and military equipment to support Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Xi’s impending visit follows North Korea’s unveiling of a new uranium-enrichment facility for nuclear bomb fuel production, signaling Kim’s determination to solidify North Korea’s nuclear weapons status before Xi’s arrival.
The Kang Kon, the second destroyer revealed by North Korea last year, follows the Choe Hyon and is considered a significant advancement in expanding the operational reach and preemptive strike capabilities of its nuclear-equipped military.
These vessels are equipped with various weapon systems, including anti-aircraft and anti-ship arms, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles, although operational effectiveness has been questioned by experts.
Despite facing initial damage during a failed launching ceremony in May last year, the Kang Kon was repaired and relaunched in June. However, doubts persist among external analysts regarding its full operational status. Kim has expressed intentions to construct two additional 5,000-ton-class destroyers.
