Pyongyang: North Korea has commissioned a new 5,000-ton destroyer, with leader Kim Jong-un expressing expectations that the Navy's combat capabilities will be enhanced to a level "admirable beyond imagination," state media reported Wednesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim made these remarks at a commissioning ceremony for the "new-type multi-mission" destroyer Choe Hyon at the western port of Nampho. The ceremony follows the unveiling of the Choe Hyon destroyer in April of the previous year as part of efforts to bolster the country's naval strength. Prior to its commissioning, North Korea conducted weapons tests from the Choe Hyon in recent months.
In a congratulatory speech, Kim stated that the destroyer was confirmed to possess "the most perfect, complex operational and combat capability." He emphasized that the combat capability of the North Korean Navy is set to grow significantly. Referring to the past reputation of the North Korean navy as the weakest branch of its military, Kim noted that significant changes have taken place.
Kim described the deployment of the destroyer as "a strategic course of crucial importance," asserting that it would strengthen the country's nuclear deterrent and enable more diverse and effective operations of its nuclear forces. He highlighted the Navy's progress toward becoming a full-fledged service equipped with strategic means, as the program to equip the Navy with nuclear weapons progresses as planned.
The North Korean leader also outlined plans for further naval expansion, calling for the construction of two Choe Hyon-class or larger surface combatants each year, including 10,000-ton-class cruisers, as part of the country's five-year defense development plan. Kim announced that following the Choe Hyon, the destroyer Kang Kon would soon be commissioned for operations, with subsequent launches of 10,000-ton strategic warships. He also called for the construction of escort ships, special-purpose vessels, and the development of underwater weapons systems.
North Korea stated that the Choe Hyon would be commissioned into the West Sea Fleet of the Navy to perform the "honorable mission" of defending the West Sea and deterring war.