North Korea Adds Another Major Destroyer to Its Navy

Amid continuing tensions with the United States and South Korea, North Korea has commissioned another major destroyer into its navy. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un launched the 5,000-tonne advanced warship, named ‘Kang Kon’, at the Wonsan port on the country’s east coast. His daughter, Kim Ju Ae, also attended the ceremony. Kim said the new vessel would form part of the country’s nuclear response system, according to state media KCNA.

The ‘Kang Kon’ is the second major destroyer to join the North Korean Navy, KCNA reported. Around three months ago, the country commissioned its first destroyer, the ‘Choe Hyon’, on the west coast. During the latest launch ceremony, Kim said it was time for North Korea to demonstrate its sovereignty over the sea and underwater domain. He also warned that rival countries would pay a heavy price for their actions. Analysts have speculated that the new warship could have the capability to carry nuclear weapons.