North Korea Embarks on Construction of New 5,000-Ton Destroyer Amid Expanding Naval Forces
North Korea has unveiled its intention to construct an additional 5,000-ton destroyer, as reported by state media on Tuesday. This move signifies the third installment in the regime's growing naval fleet, underscoring its continued commitment to bolstering maritime capabilities.
Following the launch of two analogous warships earlier in the year, AFP reports that the development underscores Pyongyang’s ongoing commitment to military modernization.
Kim Jong Un has placed a high priority on enhancing North Korea’s naval capabilities, as evidenced by his supervision of the launch of the country’s first 5,000-ton destroyer, the Choe Hyon, in April.
A second destroyer, the Kang Kon, experienced an unsuccessful launch in May; however, it was subsequently repaired and relaunched in June. On Monday, workers at the Nampho Shipyard committed to finishing the construction of the new vessel by October 10, 2026, aligning its completion with the anniversary of the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea.
State media has announced that the latest addition to the naval arsenal, dubbed “Choe Hyon-class Destroyer No. 3,” is characterized as a formidable indigenous warship. The manager of the Nampho shipyard has called on workers to adhere to the construction timeline to support the party’s military objectives and safeguard maritime sovereignty.
In a notable shift in policy, South Korea’s newly elected leader, Lee Jae-myung, has adopted a more conciliatory approach towards Pyongyang compared to his predecessor. The administration has ceased propaganda broadcasts along the North-South border, a move that has led North Korea to respond in kind by ending its own unsettling broadcasts into the South.
