North Korea Test-Fires Missiles from New Warship, Enhances Naval Capabilities

North Korea has conducted its first test-firings from its newly unveiled Choe Hyon-class destroyer, with leader Kim Jong Un overseeing the launches of supersonic and strategic cruise missiles, anti-aircraft missiles, and artillery. The 5,000-ton warship, described by state media as the most powerful in North Korea's navy, is seen as a significant advancement in the country's maritime and nuclear capabilities. Kim praised the ship’s combination of offensive and defensive systems and called for accelerating the nuclear armament of the navy to bolster national defense and maritime sovereignty. He indicated that the destroyer will be deployed to the navy early next year and stated that acquiring a nuclear-powered submarine is a future priority. These developments come amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula and increased concerns from the U.S. and its allies over North Korea's expanding military cooperation with Russia and its ongoing weapons advancements. There is no independent verification yet of the destroyer's capabilities by outside countries.