North Korea unveils nuclear-capable destroyer
The commissioning of the destroyer Choe Hyon into the DPRK Navy (Photo: KCNA)
North Korea has officially commissioned a new powerful 5,000-ton destroyer, Choe Hyon, into its fleet. The country's leader, Kim Jong Un, called the vessel a symbol of the transformation of the Navy into a strategic nuclear force, reports The Independent.
The official ceremony took place at the western port of Nampo. Kim Jong Un arrived there in person, as for Pyongyang, this is a major step in strengthening maritime dominance in the region, The Independent notes.
The destroyer Choe Hyon was unveiled in April 2025. Testing has been ongoing since then. The vessel has received modern armaments that enable preemptive strikes.
The destroyer has been equipped with an entire arsenal:
- Anti-aircraft systems for defense against aircraft.
- Large-caliber anti-ship weapons.
- Ballistic missiles.
- Cruise missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads.
This makes the vessel a versatile platform capable of attacking both ports and enemy aircraft carriers.
Russian connection
The creation of such a large vessel has raised questions. Experts believe North Korea could not have done it alone, so Russia likely provided assistance. Military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang are strengthening.
Context of the event
North Korea is currently placing great emphasis on strengthening its nuclear arsenal. Earlier, the North Korean Foreign Ministry stated that the issue of the country's nuclear disarmament is definitively closed – Pyongyang does not plan to abandon its status as a nuclear state.
Furthermore, in June, Kim Jong Un announced plans to transform North Korea's fleet into a key element of nuclear deterrence, as well as to integrate it into the overall military doctrine.
