North Korea has unveiled a new warship during a launch ceremony attended by leader Kim Jong Un. The vessel, named “Choe Hyon” after a noted anti-Japanese fighter, is described as a 5,000-ton destroyer-class ship, which the regime claims is armed with the “most powerful weapons.” This announcement comes in the wake of Kim’s recent oversight of tests involving new drones equipped with AI technology, intensifying concerns surrounding North Korea’s evolving military cooperation with Russia.
According to Pyongyang’s official Korean Central News Agency, the construction of the Choe Hyon took over a year. Experts suggest that its size allows it to carry both ship-to-surface and ship-to-air missiles, with some reports indicating it may be equipped with short-range tactical nuclear missiles. Kim highlighted the significance of the North Korean navy, stating it can now serve as a “core service for national defense and a component of nuclear war deterrent.” He affirmed that the warship is expected to “enter into operation early next year.”
During the ceremony held at the Nampho Dockyard, Kim criticized the United States for conducting military drills simulating nuclear strikes against North Korea in collaboration with South Korea. Images from the event depicted Kim alongside his daughter Ju Ae, who many experts believe is being groomed as his potential successor. Navy personnel greeted Kim with enthusiasm, and Ju Ae was observed sharing a moment with her father in front of the new vessel.
Earlier this year, Kim inspected a project aimed at developing a nuclear-powered submarine, emphasizing that enhancing the naval forces is crucial for the nation’s defensive strategy. This push includes modernization of both surface and underwater naval capabilities. The United States, along with South Korea, has increased military exercises and strategic asset deployments around the Korean Peninsula, seeking to deter potential aggression from the North.
Pyongyang has repeatedly asserted itself as an “irreversible” nuclear weapons state, denouncing US-South Korea joint drills as rehearsals for invasion. Recent remarks from former US President Donald Trump, who stated that he remains in contact with Kim, add a layer of complexity to the diplomatic landscape. A summit in Hanoi in 2019 ended in stalemate due to disagreements over sanctions and denuclearization concessions.
Experts interpret the launch of the Choe Hyon as a declaration by Kim that he will not consider denuclearization. This action also seems to set preconditions for any future negotiations between North Korea and the United States.
