UNIPA News(Seoul) 05 July-North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has supervised a series of weapons tests aboard the country’s new 5,000-tonne destroyer Kang Kon, including the launch of a nuclear-capable strategic cruise missile, as Pyongyang continues efforts to strengthen its naval forces, according to state media.

The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that the tests included firings of the destroyer’s strategic cruise missile, main naval gun, and automatic cannons. Officials also evaluated the vessel’s electronic warfare systems, target-detection capabilities, and information-processing systems.

Following the trials, Kim instructed military officials to complete the destroyer’s testing program and place the vessel into active service within two months, KCNA said.

The Kang Kon is North Korea’s second 5,000-tonne destroyer and was unveiled in May 2025. The warship was damaged during its initial launch at the port of Chongjin but was reportedly repaired and relaunched in June. However, outside analysts have questioned whether the vessel is fully operational.

The latest tests follow the commissioning of North Korea’s first 5,000-tonne destroyer, Choe Hyon, in late June. During the commissioning ceremony, Kim said the country’s efforts to equip its navy with nuclear capabilities were progressing according to plan.

According to KCNA, the Choe Hyon is equipped with anti-aircraft and anti-ship weapons, as well as ballistic and cruise missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

North Korea has increasingly shifted its military focus toward expanding naval capabilities alongside its missile development program. Kim has previously called for the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine, the development of submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missiles, and the production of two new 5,000-tonne destroyers annually over the next five years.

He has also outlined plans to develop a larger 10,000-tonne destroyer as part of the country’s long-term naval modernization strategy.