In a significant move, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has vowed to build the nation's navy into a nuclear-armed force, as reported by state media. This announcement comes as maritime drills involving Japan, South Korea, and the United States began this week. The joint exercises, dubbed Freedom Edge, are aimed at deterring North Korea's missile and nuclear threats.
Kim's declaration was made during the commissioning ceremony of the Kang Kon, a warship that had partially capsized during its launch in May 2025. According to the official Korean Central News Agency, Kim emphasized the need to ensure the effective operation of nuclear combat systems through the development of the navy into a nuclear-armed force. He also stated that the new-generation destroyer should be prepared to deliver a deadly retaliatory blow at enemies as part of the state's nuclear counteraction system.
Photos from the ceremony showed Kim accompanied by his daughter, Ju Ae, who is reportedly designated as a successor. Kim oversaw a test of the Kang Kon in July, one of two 5,000-tonne class warships launched last year. His reference to a 'nuclear-armed navy' suggests that these vessels could serve as launch platforms for tactical nuclear-capable cruise missiles, according to Lim Eul-chul, a professor at Kyungnam University.
Kim also revealed that North Korea is carrying out an 'important plan' to strengthen its navy, which will be demonstrated to the world in eight months. This could indicate the unveiling of a major strategic asset, such as a new submarine capable of carrying submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). By deploying the Kang Kon in the East Sea, Pyongyang aims to keep the joint maritime exercises and deployments of nuclear assets within range.
The ongoing US allies' drills are set to run until Friday in international waters east and south of South Korea's Jeju Island. Despite efforts by US President Donald Trump to reopen diplomacy with Pyongyang regarding its nuclear program, North Korea has shown little sign of reciprocating. The nation has continued to fire missiles and condemn the downsized drills, as well as Washington's approval of arms sales to South Korea and plans to fund programs documenting human rights abuses in the North.
