North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has signalled that Pyongyang will continue to expand its missile development over the next five years, underscoring the central role of weapons production in the country’s defence strategy.
According to state media outlet KCNA, Kim made the remarks during visits to major munitions enterprises in the final quarter of 2025. He described the missile and artillery production sector as being of “paramount importance” to strengthening the country’s war deterrence capabilities.
During the inspections, Kim ratified draft documents outlining plans to modernise key munitions factories. KCNA said the proposals will be submitted to an upcoming Workers’ Party congress expected in early 2026, where North Korea’s next five-year national development plan is due to be adopted.
The report comes amid heightened attention on Pyongyang’s military activities. On Thursday, KCNA revealed that Kim had overseen the construction of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine alongside his daughter, who is widely viewed as a potential successor. He also supervised the test-firing of long-range surface-to-air missiles.
The latest disclosures reinforce North Korea’s commitment to advancing its military technology despite international sanctions and ongoing tensions over its weapons programmes.
Melissa Enoch
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