• North Korea aims to equip its navy with nuclear weapons and build 10,000-ton warships.
• Kim Jong Un announced the commissioning of the Choe Hyon, a 5,000-ton destroyer.
• The North Korean leader emphasized the importance of military modernization amid regional tensions.
• Kim stated that the navy's capabilities would increasingly serve as a nuclear deterrent.
• The country remains under sanctions yet continues its military expansion plans unimpeded.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un announced that his country will equip its navy with nuclear weapons and construct larger warships, specifically 10,000-ton vessels. This declaration was made during the commissioning ceremony of the Choe Hyon—one of two 5,000-ton class warships launched last year—in the port city of Nampo. Kim stated, "The programme of equipping the Navy with nuclear weapons is following its planned course unerringly," underlining the strategic significance of the initiative for national security, according to SCMP and Channel News Asia.

During the ceremony, Kim emphasized that the naval nuclearization program is "progressing as planned" and that it is crucial for keeping North Korea's nuclear forces ready for "multifaceted and efficient operation." He detailed ongoing efforts to enhance the fleet, including plans to commission another destroyer, the Kang Kon, and to launch 10,000-ton strategic warships in rapid succession, as stated in reports from Le Monde and India Times.

Kim's remarks come amidst heightened tensions due to military modernization efforts by South Korea and the United States, described by him as pushing the region "to the brink of a nuclear war." The North has maintained its position as an "irreversible" nuclear state following the collapse of the 2019 summit between Kim and Trump, regarding denuclearization negotiations. This ongoing military resolve has been reiterated in a recent three-day meeting, asserting the need to bolster defense capabilities in light of perceived threats, as noted by Channel News Asia, India Times, and Le Monde.

The Choe Hyon destroyer, which is now operational, has reportedly completed extensive military tests. North Korea describes the warship as equipped with advanced anti-aircraft and anti-ship systems, as well as nuclear-capable missiles. Despite ongoing international sanctions related to its nuclear program, North Korea appears determined to proceed with its military expansion, viewing nuclear capabilities as essential for deterring adversaries, according to SCMP and Channel News Asia.