North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised weapons tests on a newly repaired 5,000-ton destroyer, state media reported Sunday.
The drills took place Friday aboard the Kang Kon at an undisclosed location, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
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Tests included a strategic cruise missile, the vessel's main gun, and automatic cannons. The crew also evaluated electronic warfare systems, target-detection, and information-processing capabilities.
The Kang Kon partially capsized and was damaged during its launch ceremony at the northern port of Chongjin in May last year.
After repairs, it underwent fresh trials alongside the recent commissioning of another 5,000-ton destroyer, the Choe Hyon, on June 23.
Kim Orders Deployment Within Two Months
After observing the coastal performance tests, Kim issued directives on the warship's operational timeline.
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Kim ordered the completion of the trial process and commissioning of the destroyer for the Navy within two months, KCNA reported.
Outside experts suggest the timeline aligns with upcoming national events.
South Korean analysts noted that the South Korean navy operates more than 10 ships over 5,000 tons, compared to North Korea's two vessels.
"Given North Korea's political calendar, the most likely scenario is that the vessel will be commissioned to coincide with the 78th anniversary of the country's founding on September 9," said Hong Min, Senior Researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification in Seoul.
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He added that the warship is expected to operate off the eastern coast of the Korean peninsula to build proficiency in low-threat, nearshore operations.
