North Korean state media said Kim Jong Un attended the commissioning of Kang Kon in Wonsan on Sunday. The five-thousand-ton destroyer follows Choe Hyon, which entered service in June. Pyongyang describes the ships as part of its nuclear deterrent. Kang Kon capsized during its first launch attempt last year and was successfully launched about a month later.
North Korean state media said Kim Jong Un attended Kang Kon’s commissioning on Sunday in the eastern port city of Wonsan. North Korea’s state news agency reported that Kim described the 5,000-ton vessel as an offensive destroyer and part of the country’s nuclear counteraction system. At the ceremony, he called for a more reliable nuclear deterrent. Photographs published by the agency also showed his wife Ri Sol-ju and daughter Kim Ju-ae.[1], [2]
Kang Kon capsized during its initial launch attempt in May last year and was successfully launched about a month later. North Korea said it tested strategic cruise missiles and other weapons from the ship into the East Sea in July under Kim’s supervision. Pyongyang claims the tested cruise missiles can carry nuclear weapons. During those July tests, Kim ordered the destroyer to enter naval service within two months.[1], [2]
Kang Kon entered service less than three months after Choe Hyon, which was commissioned in June. Choe Hyon is being deployed on the west coast and Kang Kon on the east. Both are described as 5,000-ton destroyers, and state media claims they can carry conventional and nuclear weapons. Experts cited by AP said the ships’ weapons and radar systems would improve the navy’s offensive and defensive capabilities.[1], [2]
