New North Korean destroyer unveiled as Kim Jong-Un eyes maritime dominance

What do you need to know?

• North Korea unveiled a new, equipped with "the most powerful weapon," missile destroyer.
• It was named Choe Hyon in honour of a deceased revolutionary fighter.
• The launching ceremony took place at the port of Nampho in the presence of Kim Jong Un and his daughter.

The ship, with a displacement of about 5,000 tonnes, was built in a record time of approximately 400 days, "solely by the efforts and using the technology" of North Korea.

The vessel is intended to enhance air defence, anti-submarine, and surface capabilities. It can also be armed with strategic cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles.

Kim Jong Un emphasised that the vessel will strengthen the ability to "accurately defend maritime sovereignty" and is "an important step towards maritime power." He also announced the construction of more ships of this class and the development of "nuclear-powered submarines."

The North Korean leader accused the United States of "conducting aggressive exercises simulating nuclear attacks" on his country as part of joint operations with South Korean forces. - We will respond decisively to these geopolitical changes and trends and take appropriate countermeasures - announced Kim.

Experts cited by the South Korean agency Yonhap point out the ship's equipment with vertical launch systems, Aegis radar, and an advanced artillery system. - It appears that the ship carries dozens of VLS cells capable of launching various types of missiles, including cruise missiles - said Ju Yong Won, a former military reporter and member of parliament. According to him, North Korea is striving to build platforms capable of conducting nuclear attacks from the sea.

The South Korean general staff stated that they, together with the USA, are monitoring North Korea's activities.