North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for a significant expansion of the country's naval forces, directing the regime to build two large warships annually for the next five years. The announcement came during a commissioning ceremony for a new destroyer.
Kim stated that North Korea should construct two warships comparable in size to its 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class vessel each year for the next half-decade, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). The ceremony celebrated the deployment of the new multipurpose destroyer at the port of Nampho.
In April, Kim observed the vessel conduct launches of two cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles. KCNA reported that the destroyer successfully completed military operational tests over the preceding 14 months. Kim had previously lauded the development of the Choe Hyon, describing it as a crucial step toward enhancing the operational reach and preemptive strike capabilities of North Korea's military.
Kim also indicated that the navy's nuclearization is progressing independently, contributing to the nation's nuclear deterrence. This naval buildup is occurring as Kim aims to strengthen what international analysts have long considered one of the weaker branches of North Korea's armed forces.
KCNA also reported that Kim plans to deploy another 5,000-ton destroyer, the Kang Kon, alongside larger 10,000-ton strategic warships. The Kang Kon was initially revealed in May of the previous year but sustained damage during a failed launch attempt. Following repairs, the vessel was relaunched.
Kim asserted that by incorporating new capabilities, North Korea's navy would become "something incredible beyond imagination." He further stated that "building a modernized naval base has emerged as a desperate and essential task." State media has indicated that Kim is reviewing proposals for the construction of new naval bases.
During a meeting of the Workers' Party's Central Committee on Monday, Kim announced that the navy's status, role, and operational scope would be subject to changes, though specific details were not provided.