Kim Jong Un expands North Korea’s navy to reinforce nuclear threat
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (photo: Getty Images)
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated that the DPRK's naval forces must become a key element of nuclear deterrence, according to Bloomberg.
He made this statement during a visit to military facilities and defense enterprises. Kim Jong Un emphasized that the development of North Korea's navy is a strategic priority within the formation of a full-fledged nuclear deterrence system.
According to him, the navy must be capable of effectively carrying out tasks within a potential nuclear conflict and be integrated into the country's overall military doctrine.
As reported by KCNA, the North Korean leader, during inspections of military facilities, emphasized the need to strengthen the navy's combat capabilities, modernize the fleet, and expand programs for building new combat units. This concerns, in particular, the development of large destroyers and platforms capable of carrying modern missile systems.
Kim Jong Un separately stressed that amid growing threats from hostile states, Pyongyang is forced to consistently strengthen both its nuclear forces and their delivery systems, including the naval component. North Korea states that this is a response to the military activity of the US and its allies in the region.
Pyongyang's latest statements come amid the active development of the country's nuclear and missile programs. According to Western and South Korean analysts, North Korea continues to test ballistic missiles of various ranges, including systems capable of potentially reaching the territory of South Korea, Japan, and parts of the US.
In 2026, North Korea repeatedly declared the need for an exponential buildup of its nuclear potential. There have also been reports of inspections of new nuclear material production facilities, which experts estimate may be related to the expansion of uranium enrichment.
In parallel, North Korea is actively developing its naval component. Kim Jong Un has previously personally overseen tests of new destroyers equipped with missile systems and air defense assets.
Analysts note that Pyongyang is attempting to create a more flexible deterrence structure, in which the fleet serves not only as a defensive but also an offensive tool.
Also in the regional context, an increase in military activity is being recorded: North Korea conducts regular missile tests, while the US and South Korea ramp up joint exercises. According to experts, this raises the risks of further escalation on the Korean Peninsula.
As reported by the IAEA, increased activity is being observed at North Korea's nuclear facilities.
