North Korea unveiled a new 5,000-ton multipurpose destroyer at a military shipyard in Nampo on Friday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un was present at the launch of the Choe Hyon-class vessel, joined by his daughter, Ju Ae, and his sister, Kim Yo Jong.
Kim Jong Un & daughter stroll together at unveiling of new ‘Choe Hyon’ warship
The 5,000-ton destroyer-class vessel is armed with ‘the most powerful weapons’ pic.twitter.com/SS5IAYcED3
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According to the state-run agency, the warship, constructed within 400 days, is equipped to carry anti-air, anti-ship, and nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles.
New North Korean destroyer, 5,000 ton-class, launched yesterday pic.twitter.com/y2XyJkTk6j
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(@saber_psvm) April 26, 2025
Kim described the destroyer as crucial to expanding North Korea’s operational range and preemptive strike abilities. He also mentioned that the vessel would be delivered to the navy early next year.
Kim emphasized that North Korea is advancing its weapons programs in response to joint military drills conducted by the U.S. and its allies, which he condemned as provocative. He vowed to “respond decisively to this geopolitical crisis and ongoing developments.”
The North Korean leader stated that a nuclear-powered submarine would be the next major step in strengthening the country’s navy.
The unveiling of the warship follows North Korea’s official reveal of its first airborne early-warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, based on a Russian-made Il-76 transport aircraft, as well as its first artificial intelligence (AI)-powered suicide drones.
