North Korea conducted the first test of the weapons system of the new "Choe Hyon" class warship, the state news agency KCNA reported on Wednesday. During the tests, cruise missiles and anti-aircraft missiles were fired, as well as artillery shells, and the demonstration was personally attended by leader Kim Jong-un and high-ranking military officials.
Kim said the time had come for the North Korean navy to accelerate its nuclear armament, in order to "protect maritime sovereignty and national defense". The 5,000-ton ship was unveiled days ago and, according to state propaganda, is equipped with the "most powerful weapons".
The South Korean Ministry of Defense confirmed that it is closely monitoring the North's shipbuilding activities, along with US intelligence. According to analysis by the US-based institute "38 North", the ship may still lack a fully functioning propulsion system, as it was moved by tugs in and out of a floating dock - something that casts doubt on its real operational readiness.
The new ship is expected to be officially handed over to the North Korean navy and enter active service early next year. It is named in honor of anti-Japanese revolutionary Choe Hyon.