30-04-2025
N. Korea tests new 5,000-ton destroyer amid suspicions of Russian tech support
North Korea has conducted weapons tests of its new 5,000 metric ton multipurpose destroyer, the Choe Hyon-class vessel, state media reported Wednesday, marking a major step in its naval modernization and fueling speculation of technological support from Russia.
According to The Rodong Sinmun, the tests were carried out over two days, Monday and Tuesday, following the ship's launch ceremony Friday. The trials were intended to evaluate the vessel's weapon systems and overall combat performance.
On the first day, North Korea fired a range of weapons from the destroyer, including supersonic cruise missiles, strategic cruise missiles, surface-to-air missiles and a 127-millimeter automatic naval gun. The second day included tests of tactical antiship guided weapons, various automatic cannons, and countermeasure systems such as smoke screens and electronic jammers.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the first day of testing and reportedly called for the acceleration of naval nuclear armament. He was quoted as saying it was time to make 'responsible decisions' to strengthen maritime defense capabilities and stressed the importance of establishing 'an offensive and proactive defense posture based on powerful strike capability.'
Kim was accompanied by his daughter Ju-ae and key officials, including Missile Administration Director Jang Chang-ha, Central Military Commission member Kim Jong-sik, and party secretary Jo Chun-ryong, according to the report.
The Choe Hyon-class destroyer is believed to be equipped with the Hwasan-class cruise missile system, which is potentially capable of carrying nuclear warheads, signaling North Korea's effort to establish a second-strike capability. This would allow the regime to conduct nuclear retaliation from sea-based platforms should its land-based systems be neutralized.
Military experts in South Korea say the vessel's features — including its supersonic missile system, phased-array radar and integrated air defense system — closely resemble Russian military designs and suggest significant North Korea-Russia technical cooperation.
Rep. Yoo Yong-won, a former military journalist and lawmaker from the ruling People Power Party, said the destroyer's radar and air defense system appear to be modeled after Russia's Pantsir system. 'There's a high possibility that North Korea received advanced weapons technologies from Russia in return for dispatching forces to support Moscow in the war in Ukraine,' he said.
