• Kim Jong Un orders increased missile and shell production in North Korea.
• The North aims to modernize its munitions industry to bolster war deterrence.
• Close ties with Russia have influenced North Korea's military advancements.
• Kim plans to showcase new production strategies at an upcoming party congress.
• South Korea's nuclear ambitions are perceived as a regional threat by Pyongyang.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered a substantial increase in the production of missiles and artillery shells, including the construction of new factories to address military demands. His directive emphasizes the need for heightened production capabilities and modernization within the munitions sector, according to the state-run Channel News Asia, Le Monde, and Reuters.

During his inspections of major munitions enterprises, Kim reiterated that the country's missile and shell production sector is “of paramount importance in bolstering war deterrent.” He stressfully called for a development-oriented production plan to align with future operational needs for the Korean People's Army. Additionally, an expansion of the overall production capacity is deemed necessary to keep pace with military demands, as reported by Anadolu Agency, Al Jazeera, and Channel News Asia.

On December 25, Kim was reported to have overseen the construction of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered strategic submarine during a visit to a shipyard. He condemned South Korea's nuclear ambitions, describing them as threats to North Korean national security and regional stability. This development underscores Pyongyang’s intention to enhance its military capabilities amid increased international scrutiny, according to Le Monde and Al Jazeera.

Analysts note that North Korea has intensified its missile tests to enhance precision strike capabilities, aimed at both the United States and South Korea while testing the feasibility of potential weapon exports to Russia. The deepening military cooperation with Moscow, particularly since the invasion of Ukraine, is reshaping the dynamics of North Korea's defense strategy, highlighting the interplay of military production and international relations, as noted by Anadolu Agency and Channel News Asia.