North Korea has conducted tests of strategic cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles from the Choe Hyon destroyer, marking a new development in its maritime combat capabilities.
According to the state news agency KCNA, leader Kim Jong Un personally supervised the test alongside defense officials and naval commanders.
The test included two strategic cruise missiles and three anti-ship missiles, aimed at verifying the ship's integrated weapon control system, training launch procedures, and evaluating the accuracy and jam-resistance of the upgraded guidance system.
The cruise missiles flew for 7,869 to 7,920 seconds, while the anti-ship missiles flew for 1,960 to 1,973 seconds, before hitting their targets with what was described as "extreme precision."
The activity took place off the west coast of North Korea.
KCNA reported that on the same day, Kim received a report on the weapon system development plan for two new destroyers, indicating preparations for the third and fourth vessels of the Choe Hyon class.
This move follows a large-scale warship building program. Previously, North Korea first tested weapons on this class of ship in April 2025. By June of the same year, Kim announced plans to build two more ships in 2026 and commission two vessels per year.
Analysts say the mention of a fourth ship suggests North Korea is shifting from individual vessel development to building an entire destroyer fleet.
Kim continued to emphasize the goal of strengthening nuclear deterrence while calling for enhanced strategic strike and rapid response capabilities.
Some experts believe North Korea is taking advantage of global attention being diverted to hotspots like the Middle East to accelerate its weapons program.
