Title: North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Prioritizes Weapons Development, Boosts Manufacturing Capacity
SEOUL, Aug 6 (Reuters) – In an effort to strengthen North Korea’s defense capabilities, leader Kim Jong Un has issued instructions to factories producing missile engines, artillery, and other weapons to enhance their production capacity, according to state media. Kim’s recent inspections of various arms production facilities focused on the production of engines for strategic cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and shells for super large-caliber multiple-rocket launchers and transporter-erector-launchers.
State news agency KCNA reported that Kim’s visits to multiple arms production facilities over several days are part of Pyongyang’s ongoing efforts to develop both strategic and conventional weapons, as well as showcase their military capabilities through prominent displays of various armaments. The launchers inspected by Kim are typically used to fire ballistic missiles.
North Korea has been conducting tests of rocket launchers for larger calibre shells, advanced cruise missiles, and recently unveiled its newest ballistic missiles — including a solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.
According to KCNA, Kim emphasized the importance of improved precision processing and modernized automation in the production of large-caliber multiple-rocket launcher shells. He called for the mass production of cutting-edge strategic weapon engines, aiming to bring about a revolution in developing new strategic weapons.
In photographs released by the state media, Kim was seen personally firing different types of assault rifles, demonstrating his commitment to the advancement of North Korea’s weaponry.
Cheong Seong-chang, an expert on North Korea’s political strategy at the Sejong Institute near Seoul, believes that Kim’s focus on modernization and technical innovation is aimed at enhancing North Korea’s arms export capabilities to Russia.
Last month, Pyongyang marked the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War with a major military parade, showcasing its newest nuclear-capable missiles, attack drones, and spy drones. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and a senior Chinese official attended the parade.
During a defense exhibition, Kim provided Shoigu with a tour of the ballistic missiles on display, as well as what appeared to be a new drone.
The United States has accused North Korea of supplying arms to Russia for its war in Ukraine, including artillery shells and infantry rockets and missiles. However, both Russia and North Korea have denied these allegations.
As North Korea continues to prioritize its weapons development, the international community closely monitors the situation. These recent actions by Kim Jong Un underscore the regime’s determination to enhance its defense capabilities and potentially expand arms exports.