06.06.2026 12:50
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered the strengthening of the navy ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's critical visit to Pyongyang after a seven-year hiatus. Overseeing a military drill with his daughter Ju Ae, Kim announced the construction of a new 10,000-ton destroyer, the largest war platform in the country's history, and advanced underwater weapon systems to enhance nuclear deterrence.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued striking orders to strengthen the navy ahead of a critical visit to the country by Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Pyongyang administration announced plans to build a new 10,000-ton warship and develop advanced underwater weapon systems, marking a first in its military history.
BUTTON PRESSED FOR NAVY MODERNIZATION
According to a report in North Korea's official newspaper Rodong Sinmun, Kim Jong Un unveiled modernization goals for the navy during a naval military exercise he attended on Thursday. Determined to increase naval power, Kim ordered the newest assets, the destroyer "Kang Kon" and the 5,000-ton warship "Choe Hyon," to be put into active service as soon as possible.
MILITARY EXPERTS FOCUS ON THIS PLAN
The detail that drew the most attention from military experts in the announcement was that North Korea publicly declared its plan to develop a 10,000-ton warship for the first time. According to South Korea-based analyses, a destroyer of this size is poised to become one of the largest combat platforms the North Korean navy has ever possessed. Alongside the giant ship plan, emphasis was also placed on developing new-generation stealth underwater weapon systems.
Speaking during exercises and inspections, Kim Jong Un stated that his country needs to increase its deterrence against a potential nuclear conflict. Emphasizing the strategic importance of strengthening naval forces, the leader called for building a much stronger military structure across all land, air, and naval components.
DAUGHTER WAS ALSO IN PROTOCOL
Photographs released by state media showed Kim Jong Un's daughter Ju Ae, who has frequently accompanied him in recent official programs, was again by his side. International media outlets and analysts view Ju Ae's increasing visibility at such important military events as a strong indication of a possible future leadership preparation and succession signal.
SHOW OF FORCE AHEAD OF XI JINPING'S HISTORIC VISIT
According to experts, the Pyongyang administration's announcement of its naval offensive at this time serves as a strong message ahead of Chinese President Xi Jinping's expected visit to North Korea on Monday and Tuesday. If Xi's visit takes place, it will mark the first official visit by a Chinese leader to North Korea in about seven years. Analysts say Kim Jong Un aims to strengthen his diplomatic position at the table by highlighting his country's military capacity and nuclear deterrence messages before the critical talks.