North Korea Boosts Border Firepower, Advances Missile-Capable Destroyer Programme

North Korea has intensified military preparations, announcing the deployment of long-range artillery systems capable of striking the Seoul metropolitan area while simultaneously advancing its first modern destroyer toward operational service, state media KCNA reported.

Leader Kim Jong Un recently inspected production of 155-mm self-propelled howitzers at a munitions facility and confirmed their deployment to frontline units near the southern border within the year. He stated the systems, with ranges exceeding 60 kilometres, would significantly enhance land-based strike capability against South Korea.

Alongside artillery expansion, North Korea plans to deploy multiple rocket launcher systems and tactical missile units in border areas, reinforcing its conventional deterrence posture.

Attention has also shifted to the Choe Hyon-class destroyer , North Korea’s largest warship, which has completed multiple sea trials and missile tests. Reports indicate the vessel has successfully launched strategic cruise and anti-ship missiles , which North Korean media describe as potentially nuclear-capable systems , during operational efficiency drills conducted under Kim’s supervision. The ship is expected to be formally commissioned in June 2026.

Analysts note that repeated testing has focused on validating the destroyer’s integrated weapons control system , navigation upgrades, and coordinated strike capability, marking a significant step in naval modernisation. Additional destroyers of the same class are reportedly under construction.

These developments come alongside constitutional changes removing references to Korean unification , signalling a hardened stance toward South Korea. Pyongyang now describes Seoul as a permanent adversary, further deepening diplomatic isolation as inter-Korean dialogue remains stalled.