North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Oversees Successful Test Launch of Strategic Cruise Missile from New Destroyer

Pyongyang. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has successfully overseen the test launch of a strategic cruise missile from a 5,000-ton strategic destroyer, considered a new symbol of the country's maritime defense. Attending the test of the new warship named Cho Hyon at the Nampo Shipyard on Wednesday, Kim described it as a radical transformation in his nation's naval capabilities. 

North Korea typically uses the term 'strategic' for weapons with nuclear capabilities. This sea-to-surface missile test, conducted before the formal commissioning of the warship, signals that the campaign to equip North Korea's navy with nuclear weapons is progressing satisfactorily. 

Kim also declared that the naval force capable of attacking both underwater and surface targets would be rapidly expanded in the coming days. He claimed that the success in defending maritime sovereignty, which could not be achieved in the last half-century, would be realized through this very warship.

Previously, North Korea's naval modernization program suffered a major setback in May 2025 when a similar warship capsized and sank during its launch at the Chongjin Shipyard. After labeling that failure as a criminal act, Kim has now overseen the successful test of new technology. North Korea has consistently argued that it must become militarily strong to withstand pressure from the United States and South Korea.

Alongside strengthening military power, Kim also pledged a tough struggle to improve the country's economic situation and the living standards of the people at the recently concluded Workers' Party Congress.