Kim Jong Un Observes Cruise-Missile Test on Damaged North Korean Destroyer Kang Kon

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un observed test firings of a strategic cruise missile and other weapons systems from the destroyer Kang Kon on July 3. The exercises included naval artillery, automatic guns, and electronic warfare systems. Korean Central News Agency reported that the tests also assessed the ship's target detection and information-processing capabilities.

The Kang Kon is a 5,000-ton destroyer that was damaged during a launch ceremony in May 2025 at the northern port of Chongjin. Officials repaired the vessel and relaunched it in June 2026. It is the second 5,000-ton warship North Korea has introduced in recent months.

The navy commissioned the Choe Hyon last month after a formal ceremony. After the tests, Kim instructed officials to complete the remaining trial process and commission the Kang Kon for the Navy within two months. Korean Central News Agency quoted Kim as saying the country would demonstrate its determination to possess absolute power through further visible actions.

He also convened a meeting on warship-building industry development, though no details were released. North Korea has stated it plans to build two new 5,000-ton warships each year and is developing a larger 10,000-ton destroyer.