(MENAFN) North Korea’s leader Kim Jong Un has urged significant improvements to the country’s naval forces to deter and respond decisively to any perceived hostilities, according to reports released Monday.

Kim made the remarks during an inspection of the Choe Hyon destroyer, a 5,000-ton warship regarded as a key asset in North Korea’s maritime arsenal. His visit on Sunday included the presence of senior officials from both the ruling party and the government, reports indicated.

The destroyer, which was introduced earlier this year, marks a step forward in Pyongyang’s efforts to modernize and enhance its naval defense systems.

During his address, Kim reaffirmed his government’s commitment to rapid naval development, stating that the Workers' Party would pursue these efforts “without even a moment's stagnation” in order to ensure the growth and readiness of its maritime combat force, which he described as “defending the core of the national rights.”

He also emphasized that, “The tremendous ability of our navy should be exercised in the vast ocean to thoroughly deter or counter and punish the enemy's provocations” as part of the nation’s broader security strategy.

Armed with a range of advanced weaponry, including high-speed strategic cruise missiles and tactical ballistic systems, the Choe Hyon is built to serve multiple combat roles, enhancing North Korea’s ability to operate across wider maritime zones.

A similar destroyer launched in June reportedly suffered damage after capsizing during its earlier trial in May, though details remain limited. Despite this setback, Pyongyang is planning to commission another vessel of the same tonnage by October 10, 2026.

These developments underline North Korea’s ongoing focus on strengthening its military posture at sea amid what it perceives as increasing threats to its sovereignty.

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