New North Korean warship faces deployment delay

Seoul

South Korea’s military says North Korea’s newly launched 5,000-tonne destroyer, the Choe Hyon, is not ready for immediate deployment and likely needs "considerable" additional time before becoming fully operational.

Joint Chiefs of Staff spokesperson Col. Lee Sung-jun said Thursday that although the warship has been launched and has conducted live-fire tests this week, its deployment remains distant. He also suggested that the North may have received technological or financial help from Russia.

Lee explained that naval vessels typically require years of development and further testing after construction. He confirmed that South Korean forces are monitoring North Korea’s weapons programs closely.

The Choe Hyon destroyer, revealed last week, tested multiple weapon systems including cruise missiles, tactical ballistic missiles, and ship-to-ship guided weapons. Tests also involved anti-aircraft guns, smoke launchers, and electronic jamming equipment.

According to KCNA, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called for the ship’s rapid readiness and a stronger, offensive-focused naval strategy. He emphasized building more warships of this class and even nuclear-powered submarines in the future.

Satellite images from 38 North, a U.S.-based think tank, suggest the destroyer still needs work, as tugboats were seen moving it.

The warship is part of North Korea’s broader plan to project nuclear power from the sea. Kim has urged accelerated naval nuclear armament, citing threats to national and maritime sovereignty.

Meanwhile, North Korea has also begun deploying troops to Russia to support its war efforts, reportedly sending over 13,000 soldiers since last year under a mutual defense pact.

Regional tensions remain high as Pyongyang expands its military presence and deepens ties with Moscow.