North Korea Ramps Up Naval Power with New Destroyer Construction

Accelerating Naval Expansion

Seoul: According to a South Korean lawmaker, North Korea is accelerating the construction of its third Choe Hyun-class destroyer, which has a capacity of 5,000 tonnes, as part of its efforts to enhance naval capabilities.

Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, has mandated the completion of this new multipurpose destroyer by October 10, coinciding with the anniversary of the ruling party, following the launch of two similar vessels last year.

Recent satellite images from March 12-28, provided by Vantor, a US satellite intelligence firm, revealed large cranes and vessels actively working at a shipyard in Nampho, a port city in western North Korea.

Rep. Yoo Yong-won from the People Power Party noted that the construction appears to be in its final stages, with cranes being utilized to lift significant components, including superstructures, radar systems, and weaponry.

Further analysis of satellite imagery indicates that the first Choe Hyon destroyer is being prepared for deployment after its launch in April of the previous year.

Evidence suggests that the destroyer's engine is operational, as exhaust fumes have been observed emanating from its exhaust port. Movements of cranes imply that additional weaponry may have been installed on the ship, as reported by Yonhap news agency.

Yoo commented, "North Korea seems to be hastening the modernization of its naval forces, aided by military technology support from Russia."

This destroyer is part of a new class of advanced 5,000-tonne warships, which are regarded as the most sophisticated surface combatants in North Korea's naval fleet. Previous vessels in this series, including the lead ship Choe Hyon and the second ship Kang Kon, have been launched, but their operational status is still under evaluation. Satellite images indicate that both ships have remained docked for extended periods, with minimal independent movement detected.