North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen major weapons tests, calling for the bolstering of the military's "deadly and destructive offensive posture," according to state media reports from Friday. This comes as South Korea announced significant plans to enhance its drone warfare capabilities.
The tests, conducted Thursday, evaluated the performance of a "special mission" warhead for a tactical ballistic missile, an upgraded multiple rocket launch system, and the accuracy of shells from a self-propelled gun-howitzer. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the results confirmed technological progress aimed at altering fire posture in border areas, suggesting the tested systems are intended for targets in South Korea, including U.S. military installations.
Kim reportedly stated that North Korea's self-defense policy includes strengthening its offensive posture to deter any enemy aggression, emphasizing that "to make the enemies feel constant uneasiness and fear is just an important aspect of the exercise of war deterrent." KCNA further specified that the tested warhead is designed to inflict fatal damage on key enemy targets such as airfields, ports, and power facilities.
In response to the escalating tensions and North Korea's growing military threats, which are reportedly aided by technology transfers from Russia, South Korea's Defense Ministry revealed plans to dramatically expand its drone forces. These plans include the development of long-range exploding drones, the acquisition of over 20,000 low-cost reconnaissance and attack drones, and the training of all 500,000 troops as "drone warriors."
Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back highlighted the urgent need for South Korea to proactively respond to the evolving nature of warfare and the operational environment, citing North Korea's alleged receipt of technology from Russia. He noted the increasing importance of low-cost, persistent munitions like drones in modern conflicts, referencing their use in the conflict in Ukraine. The plan aims for South Korean military personnel across all branches to operate drones as easily as personal firearms.
North Korea has concentrated on expanding its nuclear and missile arsenals since the collapse of high-stakes diplomacy with former U.S. President Donald Trump in 2019. Kim has also emphasized the development of sophisticated conventional weapons, recently commissioning the Choe Hyon, a 5,000-ton destroyer described as North Korea's most advanced warship and a symbol of its growing naval and nuclear capabilities.
Kim has previously rejected diplomatic engagement with South Korea and the United States unless preconditions, such as denuclearization demands, are dropped. He has adopted a more hostile stance toward South Korea, labeling it the country's "principal enemy" and fortifying military structures along the heavily guarded border. North Korea has also deepened ties with Russia, supporting its actions in Ukraine, and recently hosted Chinese President Xi Jinping for discussions.