Kim Jong-un supervised the launch of sea-to-surface strategic cruise missiles from the newly built 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer during an inspection conducted before the vessel’s formal entry into service with the Korean People’s Navy. The test highlights North Korea’s efforts to strengthen its naval strike capability by deploying cruise missile systems on a modern surface combatant.
Kim Jong-un, leader of North Korea, personally observed the launch of strategic cruise missiles from the country’s newly constructed Choe Hyon-class destroyer during a recent inspection of the warship, according to reports released Thursday by state media. The missile firing took place as part of evaluations of the vessel’s combat readiness before it formally enters service with the navy.
The report from Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that Kim visited the destroyer over two days, Tuesday and Wednesday, to review the ship’s systems and overall operational capability. The inspection focused on ensuring the warship is prepared for active deployment once it is officially commissioned into the Korean People’s Navy.
During the visit, Kim oversaw the firing of sea-to-surface strategic cruise missiles launched directly from the destroyer. North Korean state media described the test as an important demonstration of the vessel’s strike capability and its readiness to carry out combat missions at sea.
KCNA reported that Kim personally assessed the outcome of the launch while examining the ship’s weapons systems and performance data. The evaluation formed part of broader preparations aimed at integrating the vessel into North Korea’s growing naval force.
The missile launch was conducted ahead of the destroyer’s official induction into service, with authorities highlighting the importance of strengthening the country’s maritime defense and offensive capabilities.
The Choe Hyon-class destroyer was publicly revealed in April last year as part of Pyongyang’s wider effort to modernize and expand its naval fleet. Officials have portrayed the vessel as a key component of the country’s push to improve its maritime strike power.
According to descriptions provided by state media, the destroyer has an estimated displacement of around 5,000 tons and is designed as a multipurpose surface combatant. The ship is equipped to deploy multiple types of missile systems while supporting a range of naval combat operations.
The successful launch of sea-to-surface cruise missiles from the vessel suggests the destroyer is intended to function as a mobile strike platform capable of attacking land targets or enemy positions from offshore.
Cruise missiles fired from surface warships generally fly at low altitude and rely on advanced navigation systems to guide them accurately toward their targets. Such weapons allow naval forces to hit infrastructure, military bases, or other strategic objectives at long range while operating far from the coastline.
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