North Korea Revives Destroyer for Second Time, Sets Sights on Expanding Naval Fleet with Two New Warships

Screengrab from YouTube video posted by NewsFlash 24

A recent publication by the Korean Central news agency (KCNA) reveals that North korea has successfully repaired and relaunched a 5,000-ton destroyer, the Kang Kon, which had previously encountered issues during its initial launch attempt last month. This marks the second Choe Hyon-class destroyer constructed by North Korea this year.

The relaunch ceremony took place at Rajin’s northeastern port on June 12,with Kim Jong Un in attendance. He commended the shipbuilding teams for their dedication to modernizing the navy despite various obstacles. Kim emphasized that this destroyer plays a vital role in enhancing north Korea’s naval capabilities and extending its military reach.

The Kang Kon faced significant challenges during its first launch attempt in May when it reportedly suffered a “serious accident” and ended up stranded in shallow waters. Following this incident, Kim expressed his dissatisfaction with the failure, attributing it to “criminal negligence.” Consequently, four officials linked to the Workers’ Party’s munitions industry where detained.

Kim announced that he expects the refurbished Kang Kon to be operational by mid-2026 and disclosed plans for two additional destroyers of this class to be built next year under party approval.

Citing data from KCNA,Kim reiterated claims that expanding north Korea’s naval forces is essential for defence against increasing military pressure from the U.S.and its allies in Asia. He accused these nations of escalating nuclear conflict risks through joint military exercises and strategic asset deployments near North Korean waters.

During his speech at the ceremony, Kim warned what he termed “enemy forces” about witnessing foreign warships close to their shores—promising an overwhelming military response if provoked.

Video Credits: NewsFlash 24/YouTube

The swift repair and relaunch of this vessel caught many off guard. Analysts noted that details regarding how severely damaged it was after May’s mishap remain unclear; thus questions linger about whether it has been fully restored.

According to insights from experts at 38 North program at Stimson Centre, when North Korea concentrates resources effectively, rapid advancements can occur within its military sector. While skepticism exists regarding the strength of its navy among international observers, their ability to quickly recover and relaunch vessels like Kang Kon has drawn attention.

Traditionally focused on smaller ships for coastal defense operations, North Korea appears poised for greater firepower with these new Choe Hyon-class destroyers equipped with guided missiles and air defense systems—indicating an evolution towards more formidable naval capabilities both in Yellow Sea waters and also those adjacent to Japan.Experts suggest these ships may incorporate Russia’s Pantsir-M air defense system into their design—a sign of strengthening ties between Pyongyang and Moscow according to findings from Beyond Parallel project analysts.

While still not matching South Korean or U.S. naval technology levels directly yet according to assessments made by 38 North analysts; there is optimism surrounding North Korea’s shipbuilding pace indicating potential improvements leading toward more advanced warships down the line.