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Destroyer news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
North Korea commissioned its second 5,000-ton destroyer, Kang Kon, on Sept 6. The vessel is part of Kim Jong Un's nuclear response system.
Background
North Korea has accelerated naval modernization under Kim Jong Un, aiming to field nuclear-capable warships. The Kang Kon is the second Choe Hyon-class destroyer, following the Choe Hyon commissioned in June 2026. The commissioning comes amid regional tensions and joint US-South Korea-Japan military exercises.
How it unfolded
- May 2025Kang Kon partially capsized during an initial launch attempt at Chongjin port.
- Jun 23, 2026Lead ship Choe Hyon was commissioned on North Korea's west coast.
- Jul 2026Kang Kon completed weapons testing after repairs and sea trials.
- Sep 6, 2026Kim Jong Un attended commissioning ceremony for Kang Kon at Wonsan; state media said it would be part of nuclear response system.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Kim Jong Un said the destroyer would deliver 'annihilating retaliatory strikes' and strengthen naval nuclear armaments.
- Analysts
- Experts suggest the destroyers were likely built with Russian assistance, according to Taipei Times.
Still unverified
Whether the Kang Kon will actually carry nuclear weapons was not confirmed; state media did not specify. Independent journalists were not given access to the ceremony, and images were distributed by KCNA.