North Korea has marked the delivery of 250 nuclear-capable missile launchers to frontline military units at a ceremony where leader Kim Jong-un emphasized the need for continuous expansion of the country’s nuclear program to counter perceived US threats.
The delivery, freshly produced by North Korea's munitions factories, involves launchers designed to fire 'tactical' ballistic missiles, which are capable of delivering lower-yield nuclear weapons. The official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) stated that the new launchers aim to provide North Korea's frontline units with 'overwhelming' firepower over South Korea, enhancing the practicality and efficiency of tactical nuclear weapons operations.
During the ceremony in Pyongyang, Kim Jong-un asserted that the launchers would significantly strengthen the military's capabilities. "These missile launchers are intended to be used in various ways, such as to attack or threaten South Korea. Deploying near the border would mean that the range is not long", said Lee Sung-joon, spokesperson for South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff, at a media briefing.
State media photos showcased lines of army-green launcher trucks filling a large street, with thousands of spectators attending the event, which featured fireworks.
Kim's call for an expanded nuclear program has heightened concerns about North Korea's intent to deploy battlefield nuclear weapons along its border with South Korea. The North has also authorized its military to conduct pre-emptive nuclear strikes if its leadership perceives a threat.
North Korea has been augmenting its arsenal of mobile short-range weapons designed to penetrate South Korea's missile defenses, while simultaneously developing intercontinental ballistic missiles aimed at reaching the US mainland.