North Korea is reportedly expediting the construction of its third 5,000-tonne Choe Hyun-class destroyer, with leader Kim Jong-un directing the building of another such vessel by October 10. Satellite images reveal the presence of large cranes and crane vessels near the warship in Nampho, indicating advanced construction stages.
According to Rep. Yoo Yong-won, the use of large cranes suggests the installation of superstructures like radars and weapon systems on the vessel. Additionally, signs of the first Choe Hyon destroyer being readied for deployment have been observed, with indications of engine operation and the installation of additional weapons.
The new destroyer, part of North Korea’s advanced 5,000-tonne warship class, is seen as a move towards modernizing its navy, possibly with military technology support from Russia. Previous vessels in this class have been launched but their operational capabilities remain uncertain, with limited independent movement noted in satellite imagery.
