North Korea tests cruise and anti-warship missiles during destroyer drills, state media says

North Korea has carried out another series of missile tests as part of operational trials involving its destroyer Choe Hyon, according to state media KCNA.

The report said leader Kim Jong Un observed the exercises alongside senior defence officials and naval commanders. The drills involved the launch of two strategic cruise missiles and three anti-warship missiles, aimed at evaluating the warship’s integrated weapons command system and testing crew readiness in missile-launch procedures.

KCNA stated that the exercises also focused on verifying the accuracy and anti-jamming performance of upgraded navigation systems. The cruise missiles reportedly flew for approximately 7,869 to 7,920 seconds, while the anti-warship missiles flew for about 1,960 to 1,973 seconds before striking designated targets with what was described as ultra-precision accuracy.

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The tests were conducted over waters off North Korea’s western coast and form part of ongoing efforts to enhance the operational capability of the country’s naval assets.

During the visit, Kim was also briefed on weapons development plans for two additional destroyers currently under construction. The report indicated preparations for the third and fourth vessels of the Choe Hyon class, suggesting an expansion of North Korea’s naval destroyer fleet.

Kim emphasized that strengthening the country’s nuclear deterrent remains a top priority and called for improvements in both strategic and tactical strike capabilities, along with faster response readiness.

North Korea first tested weapons on the 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer in April 2025. Later in June, Kim announced plans to build additional destroyers and expand the fleet with more advanced ships in the coming years.

Analysts say the latest references to multiple destroyers indicate an accelerated naval development programme, reflecting efforts to expand operational capacity and modernize military systems amid regional tensions.

KCNA did not provide external verification, and independent confirmation of the tests was not immediately available.