North Korea’s Leader, Kim Jong Un, Instructs Arms Factories to Increase Production Capacity – KCNA

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an increase in production capacity at factories manufacturing missile engines, artillery, and other weapons, as part of efforts to bolster the country’s defense capabilities, according to state media. Kim visited multiple arms production facilities over several days, inspecting the production of engines for strategic cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, and shells for super large-caliber multiple-rocket launchers. These visits come as North Korea continues to develop various strategic and conventional weapons and holds prominent displays of its military capabilities.

During his inspections, Kim emphasized the importance of improved precision processing and modernized automation in the production of large-caliber multiple-rocket launcher shells. He called for the mass production of cutting-edge strategic weapon engines, aiming to bring about a revolution in the development of new strategic weapons. Photos released by state news agency KCNA showed Kim firing different types of assault rifles, showcasing his hands-on approach to overseeing weapon production.

Cheong Seong-chang, an expert on North Korea’s political strategy, believes that Kim’s focus on modernization and technical innovation is aimed at enhancing the country’s ability to export arms to Russia. North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia for its war in Ukraine, including artillery shells and infantry rockets. However, both Russia and North Korea have denied these claims.

In July, North Korea marked the 70th anniversary of the end of the Korean War with a major military parade, displaying its newest nuclear-capable missiles, attack drones, and spy drones. Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and a senior Chinese official were present at the parade, joining Kim in the reviewing stand. During a defense exhibition, Kim also gave Shoigu a tour of the display of ballistic missiles and what appeared to be a new drone.

The development of advanced weapons and the display of military capabilities by North Korea raise concerns among neighboring countries and the international community. These actions indicate the regime’s determination to continue its weapons development program despite international sanctions and diplomatic efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula.

In conclusion, Kim Jong Un’s recent visits to arms production facilities highlight North Korea’s ongoing efforts to enhance its defense capabilities. The focus on modernization and technical innovation aims to strengthen the country’s ability to export arms, potentially to Russia. These developments pose challenges for regional security and efforts to achieve denuclearization in the Korean Peninsula.

Original Story at www.reuters.com – 2023-08-06 06:16:00