North Korea Unveils New Destroyer-Class Warship, Claims It’s Armed With “Most Powerful Weapons”

In a bold military move, North Korea has unveiled a new warship it claims is armed with the “most powerful weapons,” during a high-profile launch ceremony attended by leader Kim Jong Un.

The announcement, reported by state media on Saturday, marks another significant development in Pyongyang’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military capabilities.

The new vessel, named “Choe Hyon” after a celebrated anti-Japanese fighter, is classified as a 5,000-ton destroyer-class warship. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the ship’s construction took more than a year and represents a major leap forward for the North Korean navy.

Experts suggest that given the ship’s size and capabilities, it is likely equipped with an array of advanced weaponry, including ship-to-surface and ship-to-air missiles.

Specialized defense outlets like NK News report that the destroyer could potentially be armed with short-range tactical nuclear missiles, further escalating concerns about Pyongyang’s expanding arsenal.

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At the unveiling ceremony held at Nampho Dockyard on North Korea’s west coast, Kim Jong Un hailed the destroyer as a critical component of the country’s national defense and nuclear deterrent strategy. He emphasized that the ship would officially enter service early next year, significantly boosting the navy’s role in safeguarding the nation.

“The Korean People’s Navy can now firmly serve as a core service for national defense and a crucial element of nuclear war deterrence,” Kim declared, according to KCNA.

Kim also used the occasion to criticize the United States, accusing Washington of conducting “aggressive exercises simulating nuclear strikes” against North Korea through its joint military drills with South Korea. His comments highlight the increasing tensions on the Korean Peninsula amid growing fears of a regional arms race.

The launch of the Choe Hyon comes just weeks after North Korea tested new suicide and reconnaissance drones featuring artificial intelligence technology.

These developments, along with North Korea’s deepening military ties with Moscow, have alarmed international observers, who worry about the potential destabilization of the region.

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During the ceremony, the new destroyer received the honor of being the first vessel to be reviewed personally by Kim Jong Un, underlining its importance to the regime’s military ambitions.

As Pyongyang continues to showcase its evolving military power, global attention remains sharply focused on the Korean Peninsula, with many wondering how these advancements could reshape security dynamics in the region.