SEOUL, South Korea – North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has demonstrated his commitment to building a nuclear-armed navy by supervising tests of a nuclear-capable cruise missile and other weapons aboard a new 5,000-ton destroyer, the Kang Kon.

The tests, which took place on Friday, included the launch of a strategic cruise missile and the main gun and automatic cannons of the Kang Kon. Additionally, the destroyer’s electronic warfare systems and target-detection and information-processing capabilities were also put to the test.

Kim, who was observing the tests from shore, ordered officials to complete the destroyer’s trials and place the vessel in active duty within two months, according to the state news agency.

Kim’s Push for a Nuclear-Armed Navy

Kim’s focus on building a nuclear-armed navy is a significant shift from his previous priority on ballistic missile development. In February, Kim outlined his five-year military goals at the Workers’ Party congress, calling for intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of underwater launches.

North Korea first unveiled the Choe Hyon, a 5,000-ton destroyer, in April 2025, which Kim portrayed as a major step toward expanding his military’s operational reach and preemptive strike capabilities. The warship is equipped with a range of systems, including anti-aircraft and anti-ship weapons as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles.

The Kang Kon, which was unveiled a month after the Choe Hyon in May 2025, was damaged during a botched launch at the northern port of Chongjin, prompting a furious response from Kim. The country later said the ship was relaunched in June after repairs, but outside experts have questioned whether it’s genuinely ready for active duty.

Kim has also called for building two new 5,000-ton warships annually over the next five years, as well as developing a larger 10,000-ton destroyer. The move is seen as a significant step in North Korea’s military expansion and a demonstration of Kim’s commitment to building a nuclear-armed navy.

South Korean officials and experts have questioned the effectiveness of the Kang Kon and the Choe Hyon, citing concerns over their operational readiness and the potential for Russian assistance in their construction. The issue has sparked debate over the role of Russia in North Korea’s military expansion and the potential implications for regional security.