Overview
- State media said Kim toured a munitions plant on Dec. 28 and labeled the new multiple rocket system the army’s main strike means.
- KCNA quoted him calling the launchers super-powerful and fit for use as a strategic attack means, with images showing rows of vehicles on the factory floor.
- The factory visit followed test-fires of long-range strategic cruise missiles over the Yellow Sea that South Korea’s military said it detected.
- Kim was accompanied by senior officials including party secretary Jo Chun-ryong, Defense Minister No Kwang-chol and munitions industry figure Kim Jong-sik.
- Analysts say the expanded long-range rocket artillery enhances precision strike options and raises risks to South Korean population centers, while outside verification of capabilities remains limited.