Overview

• North Korea conducted its first firing tests of the Choe Hyon destroyer's advanced weapons systems, including supersonic cruise missiles and electronic jamming guns.
• Kim Jong Un emphasized the need to accelerate the navy's nuclear armament and expand the fleet with additional warships and nuclear-powered submarines.
• Analysts suggest the Choe Hyon’s design and weapons may reflect Russian influence, though direct assistance remains unconfirmed.
• The 5,000-ton Choe Hyon features cutting-edge systems such as vertical missile launchers, advanced radar, and close-in air defense weapons.
• The destroyer is expected to be operational within a year, marking a significant step in North Korea's efforts to enhance sea-based deterrence and regional power projection.