Kim Jong Un Calls for Increased Military Production

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has recently directed his officials to ramp up the production of missiles and artillery shells while also establishing new factories to satisfy his military’s increasing demand for these weapons. This announcement was made by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) during his visit to munitions plants alongside top officials.

The Importance of Missile Production

During his factory visit, Kim stressed the critical role that the nation’s missile and shell manufacturing capabilities play in enhancing their war deterrent. “The country’s missile and shell production sector is of paramount importance in bolstering war deterrent,” he explained, emphasizing the urgency to expand production capacity to align with the needs of North Korea’s armed forces.

Factory Plans and Submarine Developments

In line with this push for increased missile production, Kim’s inspection of munitions facilities coincided with his tour of a shipyard where North Korea is reportedly constructing an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine designed to launch surface-to-air missiles. Recent images released by the state media showcase Kim reviewing this substantial vessel, which is notably coated with anti-corrosion paint and appears nearly completed.

Concerns Over Regional Stability

While overseeing submarine construction, Kim expressed concerns regarding South Korea’s ambitions to develop nuclear-powered submarines, claiming they would exacerbate regional instability and pose threats to North Korea’s national security. These remarks come in the wake of South Korea’s plea for assistance from the United States to acquire such submarines.

Missile Testing and Future Plans

Kim was also reported to have supervised the test launch of new high-altitude, long-range anti-air missiles over the Sea of Japan. He mentioned that fresh modernization and production plans would be disclosed at an upcoming congress for his ruling Korean Workers Party, expected early next year. Analysts view this renewed focus on missile testing as an attempt to enhance precision-strike capabilities, applying pressure on both the U.S. and South Korea, and possibly prepping for potential arms exports to Russia.

The Strengthening of Pyongyang-Moscow Relations

The relationship between North Korea and Russia has been bolstered significantly, particularly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Reports indicate that North Korea has provided various types of military support to Russian forces, under the framework of a mutual defense agreement between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin. In exchange, Russia is believed to be offering North Korea financial aid, military technologies, and essential supplies like food and energy.

Future Expectations from Russia

Experts predict that North Korea will likely seek advanced military technologies from Russia, including capabilities for nuclear-powered submarines and fighter jets, indicating a collaborative military future.

Conclusion

In summary, Kim Jong Un’s recent orders to bolster missile and artillery production underscore the regime’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities. The unfolding developments with submarine technology and partnerships with Russia also point toward significant geopolitical shifts in the region.

Key Takeaways

• Kim Jong Un has ordered an increase in missile and artillery shell production.
• A new nuclear-powered submarine is under construction, aimed at enhancing military capabilities.
• Concerns about South Korea’s nuclear submarine plans have been raised by Kim as a threat to regional stability.
• The relationship between North Korea and Russia has strengthened, with mutual military support being exchanged.