Overview

• Kim Jong-un directed air combat and anti-drone drills, emphasizing the need for a breakthrough in war preparations across all military units.
• The exercises included testing a new long-range precision glide bomb, precision bombing of naval targets, and anti-drone helicopter training.
• Kim outlined plans to advance air weapon systems, air defense technologies, and integrated anti-drone capabilities to modernize North Korea's arsenal.
• In May, Kim also inspected missile tests, tank plants, and special operations units, while visiting the Russian embassy to reaffirm the DPRK-Russia alliance.
• North Korea's Foreign Ministry condemned the U.S. for its counterterrorism listing, warning of heightened hostility and pledging countermeasures against perceived provocations.