Kim Jong Un has unveiled a new naval destroyer that can apparently launch nuclear-capable ballistic missiles.
According to foreign media, the North Korean leader says the warship is an important advance towards his goal of expanding the operational range and preemptive strike capabilities of his military.
Kim says his country's continued weapons buildup is a response to perceived threats from the US and its allies in the region, who have been holding military drills.
He vowed to "resolutely respond to this geopolitical crisis and ongoing developments," according to his speech broadcast by state news agency KCNA.
The new "multi-purpose" destroyer, weighing 5,000 tons, was advertised as the first in a new class of heavily armed warships.
It is equipped with the "most powerful weapons" and was built "in 400 days," Jo Chun Ryong, a secretary in the ruling Workers' Party, was quoted as saying.
The warship is designed to handle various weapons systems, including anti-aircraft and anti-ship weapons, as well as nuclear-capable ballistic and cruise missiles, according to Mr. Kim.
A nuclear-powered submarine would be the next big step in strengthening his navy, the North Korean leader added, writes A2 CNN.
Some experts have questioned whether the secretive and impoverished nation could develop such advanced capabilities without foreign help.
Regional tensions have risen as North Korea continues to display its military capabilities, while also aiding Russia in its war in Ukraine.
(A2 Televizion)
A2 CNN Livestream
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