North Korea has announced the successful relaunch of its new 5,000-ton naval destroyer, a significant development that comes less than a month after the vessel capsized during its initial launch attempt. This news was reported by the country's state media, which emphasized the rapid restoration of the warship.
The failed launch of the destroyer in May prompted a furious reaction from Kim Jong Un, the leader of North Korea, who demanded swift repairs to the warship. Following the incident, at least four officials—including three from the shipyard and one senior military official—were arrested as part of the fallout from the mishap.
According to reports from the state media, the destroyer has been fully restored and was relaunched at Rajin Port in northern North Korea. Kim Jong Un, along with his daughter Kim Ju Ae, personally oversaw the launch event. Images of the ceremony were published by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), showcasing the leader's presence at this pivotal moment.
This particular warship is one of two new 5,000-ton naval destroyers that North Korea has constructed over the past year, with launches beginning in April. These destroyers are now the largest vessels in Pyongyang's fleet and are theoretically capable of launching nuclear weapons. Kim Jong Un has prioritized the development of a nuclear-armed navy, announcing plans to construct two additional destroyers in the coming year.
Despite the official announcement of the relaunch, experts are raising questions regarding the thoroughness of the repairs. The swift turnaround raises concerns about whether the vessel has truly been restored to full operational capability. Satellite imagery over recent weeks captured the capsized destroyer in the harbor before it was transported to a repair facility and subsequently refloated.
During the relaunch event, Kim Jong Un addressed attendees, asserting that the initial failed launch would not hinder North Korea's military modernization efforts. He ominously warned that adversaries would soon understand the implications of watching North Korean naval forces operate freely in contested waters, as quoted by KCNA.
As North Korea continues to advance its naval capabilities, the international community remains watchful of the implications these developments may have on regional stability and security.
